What Do Horses Eat?

Horses are herbivores that primarily eat fibrous plant material such as grasses and hay. Their digestive systems are designed for continuous grazing on high-fibre forage, supplemented by grains and concentrates when extra energy is needed. Fresh water is essential to maintain health and digestion.

Introducing the Horse
Horses (Equus ferus caballus) are large, grazing mammals domesticated for thousands of years across the world. They inhabit a variety of environments from grasslands to stables and are known for their endurance, strength and social behaviour. Their natural feeding habits revolve around grazing on grasses and browsing on other vegetation.

Diet in the Wild
Wild horses spend much of their day grazing on grasses, sedges and herbs. Their diet is rich in fibre, which supports the specialised fermentation process in their hindgut that breaks down cellulose. Wild horses will also consume leaves, bark and shrubs when grass is scarce, adapting seasonally to food availability.

Domestic Horse Diet
Domesticated horses typically eat hay or pasture grass as their main food source. Hay should be good quality and free from mould or dust. Many horses also receive grain-based concentrates or commercial feeds, especially when energy demands are high due to work or growth.

Feeding should mimic natural grazing patterns, offering small, frequent meals to prevent digestive issues like colic. Fresh water must be available at all times.

Feeding Behaviour and Care
Horses are natural grazers, eating for up to 16 hours daily. Their teeth continually grow and need fibrous food to wear them down properly. Sudden changes in diet can cause digestive upset, so new feeds should be introduced gradually.

Supplements such as salt licks or vitamins may be provided based on dietary analysis.

Seasonal and Habitat Influences
Pasture quality varies with seasons, affecting nutrition. In winter, hay quality is crucial to maintain health. Horses in poor condition may require additional feeding.

Ecological Role and Benefits
Horses influence grassland ecology through grazing patterns, seed dispersal and soil disturbance. Properly managed grazing promotes biodiversity.

Interesting Horse Facts
Horses have a complex digestive system including a large caecum for fermentation. They select specific plants when given choices and show preferences.

Common Questions About Horse Diet
Many ask if horses can eat grain alone; grain should supplement, not replace forage. Questions about feeding apples or carrots are common; these are healthy treats in moderation.

Conclusion
Horses thrive on a diet centred around forage like grasses and hay, with supplementary grains as needed. Maintaining natural grazing behaviour and balanced nutrition supports their health, performance and wellbeing.