The Top Equine Feeding Protocols You Need to Know

The Top Equine Feeding Protocols You Need to Know

The science behind horse feeding is complex, yet understanding the basic principles can help ensure optimal health and performance of your equine companion. This guide explores key feeding protocols that every horse owner should consider. But first, let’s learn about why feeding protocols matter. 

The Anatomy of Digestion: Why Feeding Protocols Matter

Before discussing specific protocols, it's crucial to understand that horses are hindgut fermenters with relatively small stomachs but large intestinal tracts. Their digestive system is designed for:

• Continuous grazing (10-16 hours daily)
• Processing high-fibre foods
• Multiple small meals
• Constant production of stomach acid
• Limited grain/concentrate processing

This anatomical design influences every aspect of our feeding decisions. How we feed horses matters, and the below outlines what horse owners need to consider when doing so.

Ground Feeding vs. Raised Feeders: The Natural vs. Modern Debate

Horses evolved as grazing animals, naturally designed to eat with their heads lowered. This natural feeding position offers several benefits:

- Promotes proper drainage of respiratory airways

- Allows natural stretching of back and neck muscles

- Encourages saliva production, which helps buffer stomach acid; and 

- Matches the horse's anatomical design

However, ground feeding isn't without risks. When horses eat from the ground there is an increased in risk of sand ingestion, potentially leading to colic. There is also a greater risk of parasite exposure, feed wastage, especially in wet conditions and possible aggravation of arthritis in older horses. 

However, there are practical solutions that horse owners can use to reduce the risks of ground feeding such as:

- Using rubber mats under feeding areas

- Implementing shallow feed tubs at ground level

- Regular deworming programs; and 

- Rotating feeding locations to prevent muddy areas

Matching Feed to Workload: The Dynamic Approach

A horse's nutritional requirements vary significantly based on their workload. Not only should horses be fed in accordance to their workload (i.e. light, medium or heavy), but feed practices should be altered when horses are given a day off, or their workload is significantly reduced on one day.

For example, if your horse is given a rest day, then the amount of feed should be reduced to reflect this workload. This will not only save money, but it will also ensure that your horse isn’t receiving extra energy and calories which can alter behaviour and body condition. 

This doesn’t mean however that certain feeds be stopped in their entirety, as this can alter the microbiome of the horse’s gut. Instead, all normal feeds fed to the horse should still be provided, but in reduced amounts when the horse is at rest, or performing at a lighter workload. 

Weighing vs. Volume Measuring: Precision Matters

The "scoop method" of feeding has been a traditional approach for generations, but it's fraught with potential problems. Instead, feed should be weighed with a set of kitchen scales to ensure that your horse is receiving the appropriate amount of feed. 

Measuring your feed by weight is important for the following reasons;

- Different feeds have different densities

- Weight variations between batches

- Accuracy in calculating daily intake

- Better cost control

- Easier to maintain consistent body condition

It is also important to consider the below facts when it comes to weighing feed:

- A scoop of oats might weigh 0.5kg while the same scoop of pellets weighs 0.8kg

- Weight measurements allow precise tracking of dietary changes

- Digital scales are relatively inexpensive and highly accurate

Best Practices for Feed Management

The following outlines the best practices for feed management. 

Feed Changes:

- Implement all changes gradually over 7-14 days

- Monitor body condition regularly

- Adjust according to season and workload

- Document feed changes and responses

Timing and Frequency:

- Feed at consistent times

- Provide multiple small meals when possible

- Always feed forage before concentrates

- Maintain at least 1.5% body weight in forage daily

Quality Control:

- Check hay quality regularly

- Store feed properly to prevent mold

- Monitor feed freshness

- Regular testing of forage when possible

Individual Considerations:

Age:

- Young horses need growth-supporting nutrition

- Senior horses may require easier-to-digest options

- Dental condition affects feed selection

Health Status:

- Metabolic conditions require specialized diets

- Some medical conditions need dietary modifications

- Consider supplements based on individual needs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overfeeding:

- Leads to obesity and associated health issues

- Wastes money

- Can cause behavioral problems

2. Irregular Feeding:

- Disrupts digestive rhythm

- May contribute to colic risk

- Creates unnecessary stress

3. Inappropriate Feed Selection:

- Not matching feed to work level

- Choosing wrong feed type for age/condition

- Ignoring individual requirements

Safety Considerations

1. Feed Storage:

- Keep feed in rodent-proof containers

- Store in cool, dry conditions

- Maintain proper inventory rotation

2. Feeding Area:

- Ensure adequate space between horses

- Keep feeding areas clean

- Provide good lighting

- Maintain safe footing

3. Health Monitoring:

- Regular body condition scoring

- Weight tape measurements

- Dental checks

- Fecal monitoring

Successful horse feeding combines science with practical application. Regular monitoring, accurate measurement, and attention to individual needs are crucial. While it may seem overwhelming initially, developing a systematic approach to feeding management will benefit both horse and owner in the long term. Remember that each horse is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another. Regular consultation with equine nutritionists and veterinarians can help fine-tune feeding programs for optimal results.

Remember to document your feeding program, including:

- Types and amounts of feed

- Feeding times

- Changes in work level

- Body condition scores

- Health observations

This record-keeping will prove invaluable in maintaining your horse's health and adjusting the feeding program as needed over time.