Nutrition Information for a Horse

Although grass and hay remain the staples of an equine diet, research has determined the optimum nutrients for all ages and types of horses from newborns to seniors.

  1. Nutrition for Foals

    • Foals require balanced feeds for optimum growth.

      A foal will soon outstrip the nutrients in its dam's milk, making supplemental feeding necessary for optimal growth without developmental problems. Foals should receive a ration that contains at least 16 percent protein with a ratio of 0.8 percent calcium to 0.6 percent phosphorous.

    Adult Horses

    • Adult horses need feed appropriate to their activity level.

      Adult horses will consume 1.5 to 3 percent of their body weight in feed each day depending on their level of work. A feed consisting of 10 to 14 percent protein is adequate for most adult horses.

    Broodmares

    • Lactating mares

      Lactating mares will require a feed of 16 percent protein and will consume 2 to 3 percent of their body weight each day. Pregnant mares without foals have the same needs as other adult horses during the first eight months of their pregnancy.

    Senior Horses

    • Older horses often require specialized complete feeds to provide the necessary nutrients. The protein percentage will usually be at least 14 percent.

    Special Feeds

    • Owners will find a variety of feeds for horses with special needs, such as those prone to founder or respiratory problems.