Different Forage Types, Different Advantages

Forage, a horse's natural feed, should be chosen to meet as much of a horse's protein, energy and fiber needs as possible. Forage types can be combined to provide the best program for each individual horse. Be sure to provide between 15 and 30 pounds of forage to each horse daily.

 

Pasture
Good pasture is the ideal forage for many horses. Horses on pasture move around and eat small amounts of grass continuously, the way nature intended for proper functioning of the digestive tract. However, pasture is not always available and doesn't supply enough nutrients for some horses. Pasture can be used to meet some or all of each horse's forage needs.

Grass Hay
Good-quality grass hay is the single feed with the best balance of protein, energy, and fiber for horses. Choose grass hays that are bright green in color, free of dust and mold, and cut in early stages of development. Allow horses between 1.5 and 3% of body weight (about 15 to 30 pounds) of good-quality grass hay per day.

Legume Hay
Alfalfa and clover are examples of legumes. They contain more protein, energy, calcium and vitamin A than grasses. The inclusion of some legumes (20-50%) in rations for growing and working horses and broodmares takes advantage of these additional nutrients. Legume hays should be clean and bright colored and cut at early to mid-bloom stage. 

Cubes/Pellets - FORAGE FIRST Alfalfa and Timothy/Alfalfa Hay Cubes or FORAGE FIRST Hay Replacer (pellets) are consistent, good-quality partial or complete forage sources for horses. The cubes provide a higher leaf-to-stem ratio, more concentrated nutrients, and less waste compared to most long-stemmed hays. Cubed products are ideal for traveling and can be soaked for senior horses with dental problems. Hay Replacer can be used to extend, supplement, or replace forages.