12 best horse feeds
Horse feeds are essential for the proper nutrition and well-being of horses. The right feed helps ensure that horses receive the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and perform at their best. Here are some key points related to horse feeds:
Types of Horse Feed:
- Forage: Forage is the foundation of a horse's diet and typically includes grass, hay, and pasture. It provides essential fiber and nutrients.
- Concentrates: Concentrates are feeds that are more energy-dense and include grains like oats, barley, corn, and commercial horse feeds. These are usually given in addition to forage to meet the horse's energy needs.
Nutritional Requirements:
- Horses require a balanced diet of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to stay healthy.
- Protein requirements vary depending on the horse's age, activity level, and life stage (e.g., growing foal, pregnant mare, or performance horse).
Feeding Frequency:
- Horses are typically fed 2-3 times a day. The frequency and amount of feed depend on the individual horse's needs and the availability of forage.
Water Access:
- Access to clean, fresh water is crucial for horses. Horses can drink large volumes of water, especially in hot weather or after strenuous exercise.
Specialized Feeds:
- Some horses, such as those with specific health conditions or high-performance demands, may require specialized feeds or supplements to meet their unique needs.
Weight Management:
- Maintaining a healthy weight in horses is essential. Underweight horses may need additional calories, while overweight horses may require controlled feeding.
Grain Selection:
- The choice of grains for concentrates should be based on the horse's dietary requirements and individual sensitivities.
- Some horses may be sensitive to high-starch grains like corn, which can lead to digestive issues like colic or laminitis.
Hay Quality:
- High-quality hay is essential for providing necessary fiber and nutrients. Hay should be free from mold, dust, and contaminants.
- The type of hay (e.g., grass hay or legume hay like alfalfa) can vary based on the horse's needs.
Supplements:
- Supplements like vitamins, minerals, and joint support additives may be added to a horse's diet when deficiencies or specific needs are identified.
Consulting a Veterinarian or Equine Nutritionist:
- It's advisable to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the specific dietary needs of each horse, especially for performance horses or those with health issues.
Transitioning Diets:
- Changes in a horse's diet should be made gradually to avoid digestive upset. Slowly introduce new feeds or hay types over several days.
Storage:
- Proper storage of horse feeds is essential to prevent spoilage and contamination.Feeds should be stored in a cool, dry place in sealed containers.
In summary, horse feeds play a crucial role in the health and performance of horses. The type and amount of feed should be tailored to each horse's specific requirements, with consideration given to their age, activity level, and any underlying health conditions. Adequate forage, clean water, and regular monitoring are essential for maintaining a horse's well-being.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best horse feeds on the market
Farnam SimpliFly Feed-Thru Fly Control for Horses, Breaks and Prevents the Fly Life Cycle, 10 pound
Farnam
Product description
Stop flies before they start. Start your horse on SimpliFly Feed-Thru Fly Control with LarvaStop early in the spring and continue throughout the summer until cold weather restricts fly activity. Break the fly life cycle by preventing their development into mature adults.
- Prevents development of house and stable flies in manure when horses are continually treated
- Reduces fly populations by 97-100%
- Highly palatable pellet; just add to horse's feed
- Contains Larvastop, an insect growth regulator that breaks the fly life cycle
- Contains Diflubenzuron
User questions & answers
| Question: | The instructions seem to indicate that there is a scoop in the 10# pail but mine didn't have a scoop to measure. I am using 1/8 cup = 1 Oz. right |
| Answer: | If you have an oozy sore, you can use it. I have used it and I also use it on dogs and cats. |
| Question: | Can this be used on goats |
| Answer: | My wife had hers done at the vet they were burned as babies she did not use this on them for that. Now with that being said We use this on all our animals horses chickens dogs cows. For all scrapes and scratches. Yes even deep ones. We have used this also on our goats for cuts scrapes and so forth. I’d use it on my self. If it was clear and not purple. It don’t wash off so use a glove. This stuff works great we’ve been using it now for about 8 years now |
| Question: | how young of a foal can be fed this please |
| Answer: | It's a powder, so just open and point it directly at the wounded area, just a few inches away and squeeze the bottle. Be careful not to ingest or get in your eyes. Works very well for small wounds. |
| Question: | How long does 10 pds last one horse |
| Answer: | Causes severe gastroenteritis in cats. Do not use this product on cats. They will not eat after ingesting this product. Cats are allergic to Blue Lotion. Great for the animals listed. I grew up on a farm and this was our main medicine for wounds. I have used it many times on horses, dogs and cattle. It is excellent for wounds, cuts, abrasions, etc. |
Product features
Break the Fly Life-Cycle
Get a jump start on fly control. Start your horse on SimpliFly Feed-Thru Fly Control with LarvaStop early in the spring and continue throughout the summer until cold weather restricts fly activity. Break the fly life cycle by preventing the development into mature adults.
- Prevents development of house and stable flies in manure when horses are continually treated.
- Highly palatable; just add to horse's feed.
- Contains no organophosphates.
- Contains Diflubenzuron.
Available in 3.75 lb., 10 lb., 20 lb. and 50 lb. sizes.
Manna Pro Weight Accelerator for Senior Horses | Made with Omega 3 Fatty Acids from Flaxseed | 8 Pounds
Manna Pro- Pets
Product description
Senior Weight Accelerator is formulated to address the health concerns of older horses. It contains a high fat and calorie level for weight gain and body condition, Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed, probiotics to support proper digestion, and biotin to support hoof growth. Plus, it is easy to feed and senior horses love the taste!
- HIGH FAT AND CALORIE LEVELS: Manna Pro Senior Weight Accelerator is high in fat and calorie levels for weight gain and body condition
- OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS: Contains Omega 3 Fatty Acids from flaxseed to support healthy skin & coat condition
- FORMULATED FOR SENIOR HORSES: Made with probiotics to support proper digestion and biotin for hoof growth
- VITAMINS & ANTIOXIDANTS: Essential vitamins and antioxidants support a healthy immune system
- HIGHLY PALATABLE: Easy to feed and extremely palatable for older horses
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this safe and effective for mini horses with the dose adjusted for weight of course |
| Answer: | This is a very lightweight boot compared to the Cloud (which I love). For stall or trailer use, it might be OK, but it comes off easily and affords little protective characteristics. |
| Question: | Is this a powder or pellet |
| Answer: | I just guessed at first. 1 fits a smaller hoof, such as thoroughbred. My thoroughbred mare has larger hooves since she is older and spreading out a bit. I bought 2 boots, one size 1 and one size 2. Now I can treat any of my horses front or back hooves. I really like the boot, it is easy and not hard on your back when caring for your horse. Sorry that my response is late - just had back surgery and hope to be riding again later summer. Enjoy your boots. |
| Question: | How long does a bag roughly last? 15h horse |
| Answer: | There must be an error somewhere. Manna Pro Apple Flavored Bite Sized Nuggets are a popular, delicious horse treat. Sorry for the confusion. |
| Question: | How does this go from $11 to $38 in the span of a couple days |
| Answer: | Well, they are horse treats, and we will turn this error into Amazon, as they drive the description on most items. Thank you for making us aware of this falicy. |
Farnam SimpliFly Feed-Thru Fly Control for Horses, Breaks and Prevents the Fly Life Cycle
Farnam
Product description
Break the fly life cycle. SimpliFly Feed-Thru Fly Control with LarvaStop insect growth regulator prevents larvae from developing into mature adults. When horses are continually treated, stable and house fly larvae can’t develop in their manure, so you’ll see a significant reduction in the fly population.
- Age range description: All Life Stages
User questions & answers
| Question: | Can justifly be added to salt or mineral |
| Answer: | Hello! This product is intended to be used for horses and foals. It is not recommended for off label usage. |
| Question: | Can you use the food and put a spray on your horse |
| Answer: | Probably not -- it is an oily substance that probably wouldn't spray well. I use a mitt to rub it on my horse - I use it b/c my horse hates to be sprayed. Farnam does make a spray called RepelX -- they sell it pre-mixed in a spray bottle or you can buy the solution in a container like the Wipe container that you can put into your own spray bottle and mix with water -- it is a good value since you mix it: "Diluted 1:7 with water, provides economical protection from house flies, horn flies, gnats, and mosquitoes." |
| Question: | Its late August, is it too late too start? I just got a new horse and the flies seem to be so attracted to his stall |
| Answer: | Since it is adjustable (Velcro strap), it should work for your mini donkey. |
| Question: | Hi, do you have a product called ralone duo top or some other product to cattle weight gain |
| Answer: | Hi there, if your horse has a traditional Arabian head, features, you should probably get that size. My horse is part/Arab, which is why I chose the regular size. I hope that answer helps....your trainer or your horse's veterinarian would be able to advised you, too. Happy Thanksgiving! |
Product features
Break the Fly Life-Cycle
Get a jump start on fly control. Start your horse on SimpliFly Feed-Thru Fly Control with LarvaStop early in the spring and continue throughout the summer until cold weather restricts fly activity. Break the fly life cycle by preventing the development into mature adults.
- Prevents development of house and stable flies in manure when horses are continually treated.
- Highly palatable; just add to horse's feed.
- Contains no organophosphates.
- Contains Diflubenzuron.
Available in 3.75 lb., 10 lb., 20 lb. and 50 lb. sizes.
Feed scoop with measurements Large 3-quart measuring bucket for horses or pig feed Clear Equine Livestock scooper for grain storage containers Oats Pellet Sweet Feed cup Sturdy animal pet feeder
Product description
Stop guessing the amount of feed for your livestock and get yourself a durable large feed scoop to accurately measure the feed.
This measuring feed scoop comes with permanent measurement markings in 3-sections for oats, pellets, and sweet feed to ensure accuracy.
Clear and translucent measuring sweet feed scooper is built with food-grade plastic and has one-piece construction making it last longer.
The markings are permanent and do not fade over time. Easy to grip handle and spill-proof design is convenient and handy. This horse feed scoop can be used for both dry and liquid products without a worry.
Easily measure large portions of sweet feed for livestock with this food measuring scoop. It is suitable to be used for scooping feed for livestock, horses in horse stable, for animals in zoo, or for pets in pet store or in your house.
Scoop different types of feed and administer the right amount of food without overfeeding the animals. Helps you provide consistent amount of food each time which is important for proper growth of animals.
Can be used in pantry or grocery stores to scoop rice, wheat, corn, grains, oats, and other stuff.
No more guessing just accuracy!
- 3-quart clear plastic feed scoop – This large food measuring scoop is designed using food-grade plastic featuring thin-walled design with one piece construction. Clear and translucent 3-quart plastic feed scooper is cracks and spill proof.
- Measuring feed scoop with permanent markings – Large feed scoop cup has clear and permanent graduation markings to ensure exact amount of feed is being given to the animal. Separated into different feed types for accurate measurements.
- Grains, oats and sweet feed for livestock- Allows you to accurately measure grains, oats, pellets, sweet feed for your livestock and is also suitable for liquid products. Now you will never overfeed or underfeed your horse or other animals.
- Heavy duty and easy grip handle – measuring scooper also has heavy duty and easy grip handle so you can easily scoop grains or oats. The handle is anti-slip and anti-skid. Horse scoop feed cup will last longer due to its durability.
- Multipurpose large food measuring scoop – Food measuring scoop is multipurpose and can be used for measuring feed, grain, oats for livestock in barn, in zoos, for pets, and even in pantry for scooping rice, wheat, and liquids.
Corta-Flex Equine Joint Supplement | Horse Supplement for Healthy Joints | Quick & Effective Nourishment to Joints formulated with Vitamins and Minerals | 12 LB Pellet
Corta-Flx
- OPTIMAL JOINT FUNCTION: Helps maintain healthy joints and connective tissue for optimal function in all classes of horses and activities.
- BETTER UTILIZATION OF INGREDIENTS: Corta-Flx isolates penetrate cellular walls more effectively for better utilization of active ingredients in connective tissue and joint space.
- UNIQUE AND SUPERIOR ADVANTAGE: Comparable to key active ingredients found in chondroitin and glucosamine but provide quicker and more effective nourishments to joints.
- VITAMINS & MINERALS: Formulated with supportive vitamins and minerals to promote healthy joint and immune functioning.
- CLINICALLY PROVEN: Whether you’re actively competing or going for a trail ride, Corta-Flx is clinically proven to help benefit your horse’s joint health and function.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What are the ingredients |
| Answer: | I think this item comes in sizes 0-5 and I just guessed knowing my horse has very large feet, but not quite draft size so I choose a size 4. The boot fits pretty loosely anyway. It’s the Velcro’s around the pattern that keeps it on. |
Product features
Directions For Use
Initial Period Administer as follows for the first 5 days:
- Less than 800 lb body weight, 1 scoop per day
- 800 to 1,200 lb body weight, 2 scoops per day
- More than 1,200 lb body weight, 3 scoops per day
Maintenance Period Administer as follows after the initial period:
- Less than 800 lb body weight, ½ scoop per day
- 800 to 1,200 lb body weight, 1 scoop per day
- More than 1,200 lb body weight, 1½ scoops per day
Ingredients
Active Ingredients Per Scoop (1 oz): Collagen Hydrolysate (Bovine), 1,200 mg; Chondroitin Sulfate (Avian), 1,000 mg; Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), 100 mg; Yucca Extract, 100 mg; Hyaluronic Acid (HA), 50 mg. Inactive Ingredients: Apple Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Dried Cane Molasses, Kaolin, Propionic Acid, Saccharin Sodium, Vegetable Oil, Yeast Culture.
Cashel Feed Rite Feed Bag
CASHEL COMPANY
Product description
Cashel feed rite bag eliminates feed waste due to sloppy eating, bullying, and head tossing. During feed time, it stops the fighting with multiple horses, lets all horses get their ration, helps hard to catch horses, and relaxes nervous horses. No grain is wasted with a spillproof design. Constructed of sturdy breathable coated mesh, adjustable strap, durable snap and elastic straps that retract as grain is eaten. White tag to mark the horses name for convenience. Features: Constructed of sturdy breathable coated mesh Adjustable strap Durable snap and elastic straps that retract as grain is eaten White tag to mark the horses name
- Cashel Equine
- Sturfy breathable mesh
- Adjustable strap
- Name Tag
- No Wasted Feed
User questions & answers
| Question: | How do I order the color and size I want? There is no option to choose |
| Answer: | We recommend first consulting your vet. Simplifly should be fine for foals that are 300 lbs. or more. |
| Question: | If the horse puts its head up in the air will the grain spill out the top |
| Answer: | 10 pounds will last about 4 to 5 months per horse. |
| Question: | What are the measurements on the draft size bag |
| Answer: | It has all the joint ingredients, you can go on their website and it will show the label. |
| Question: | Confusing the way the sizes are listed. Is pony size wider/bigger than horse |
| Answer: | I think it’s safe for all horses with the proper dosage. It’s a great product - worked well for my horses and ponies. It makes their coat shiny too . Check with your vet before using it if your horse / pony have any metabolic issues like cushings or EMS. I used it as a supplement with regular forage and feed. There is a recommendation on the package for not exceeding a certain dosage each day. Once my horses got to a good weight and could maintain it I stopped using this. Also - start out at half dose and watch for runny poop before increasing. It can cause loose bowels . If they get loose bowels (runny poop) - i would stop Using it or lower the dose after talking to your vet. |
Equitrol II Feed-Thru Fly Control for Horse, 20-Pound
Farnam
Product description
Equitrol II pellets in horse's feed prevent development of stable and house fly larvae in the manure of treated horses.
- Stops development of house flies and stable flies in the manure of treated horses
- Package Dimensions: 24.765 H x 26.67 L x 26.67 W (centimeters)
- Package Weight: 20.85 pounds
- Country of Origin : United States
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it work on horses that are also on pasture 4 or 5 hours a day |
| Answer: | Yes, you can use the spray. Best spray I have found so far is SkinSo Soft. It doesn't have the chemical odor horses hate and it works longer. I have seen more than 60% reduction in flies. |
| Question: | How many doses are in 20lbs |
| Answer: | I can’t answer that. I start in March and go to the end of fly season. I do it every single day. I have zero flies. I would be a great representative for that company. |
| Question: | Do I need to start my horse in this before fly season, if so how ling before the anticipated fly season starts |
| Answer: | no |
| Question: | How long does the 20 pound bucket lasts for three horses |
| Answer: | It's an oil base and use a applicator or rag to use right out of the bottle...they do have a spray but it doesn't last as long as this one. |
Harrison Howard Three Sided Open Grid Slow Feed Hay Bag
Harrison Howard
- HEALTHY & SAFE SLOW-FEEDING SYSTEM: Designed with care for horses’ overall health in mind, the hay bag promotes a healthy and safe slow-feeding system for horses suffering from feed-related health issues, such as colic, laminitis, digestive problems, or obesity.
- GENEROUS CAPACITY: Easily hold up to 2 bale flakes. A good large size to accommodate a large quantity of hay with an easy-to-fill opening at the top, its decent capacity keeps enough hay secure and fresh, meanwhile saving time and effort to refill the bag over and over.
- STIMULATES BETTER GRAZING & ENFORCES SLOW FEEDING: The structure of the poly webbing grid prevents horses from gulping down big mouthfuls and instead encourages slow-bite eating. Slowing the grazing down optimizes digestion and makes the horse have to work to eat for much longer, preventing boredom and the development of bad habits such as chewing or cribbing.
- TEAR, WEAR-RESISTANT, DURABLE BUILD: Made of a 1680 Denier heavy canvas material that goes all the way around including the gusset, no mesh material. Tooth proof fabric that is durable enough to handle the stresses of playful young horses.
- STURDY HANGING STRAPS & D-RINGS: Equipped with adjustable straps on top for easy hanging, whether it’s in stables, trailers, or on fences. Additionally, reinforced stainless-steel D-rings on the backside for tying the bag in place to keep it from twisting, turning, and spinning. Attach the bag at a horizontal angle for use in outdoor sheds with multiple horses eating at one time.
User questions & answers
| Question: | How big are the openings |
| Answer: | I have a quarter horse, and it is on the last holes going up to tighten it. I don't see why it wouldn't. I have a friend that has a standardbred and it fits her fine with holes to spare. |
Weaver Leather Slow Feed Hay Net, Lime Green, 36-Inch
Weaver Leather
Product description
Designed with smaller size holes for slower feeding and better digestion, these 36" rope hay nets are perfect for holding hay at shows.
- Smaller Holes For Slower Feeding
- Perfect For Shows
- Rope Hay Net Design
- Country Of Origin: China
User questions & answers
| Question: | How many loops are at the top, that they thread the hanging rope through |
| Answer: | As long as it’s a bale of hay |
| Question: | What size are the holes |
| Answer: | You can see from the product's information. It is 45'' x 14'' x 23'' |
| Question: | What material is the netting? Poly or cotton |
| Answer: | No, the material is soft but designed to be heavy duty. It can collapse into a small piece when not in use. |
| Question: | could a whole bale be put in |
| Answer: | The material is sturdy but I am sure it would quickly rip if loaded and dragged over anything but the smoothest surfaces. |
Product features
About Weaver Leather
Founded by Harry A. Weaver in 1973 as the Fryburg Shoe Shop, Weaver Leather grew from humble beginnings into a trusted manufacturer of a wide range of leather and nylon goods.
Today’s Weaver Leather is experiencing continual growth and caters to a variety of U.S. and international customers in the markets it serves including equine, livestock, pet, leather supply, and arborist,. While much has changed through the years, our steadfast commitment to our customers remains our top priority.
Many of our products are handcrafted in Mt. Hope, Ohio and feature the finest materials, skilled American workmanship and finishing touches for years of dependable performance.
Purina Trea Apple and Oat Flavored Horse Treats, 3.5 lb Bag
Purina
Product description
Show your love with Purina Apple & Oat Flavored Horse Treats. Your horses will love the size, shape and & flavor of these yummy treats, and you'll love their reaction! Purina Horse Treats are a perfect nutritional complement to any horse feed, so you can feel good about rewarding (or just spoiling! ) all of your equine children!
- Easy to feed, easy to eat
- Excellent sizes and fun shapes
- Horse treats with a great taste that your horses will love
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is this considered high fiber? Acceptable for donkey |
| Answer: | I'm not sure. I purchased it for a farm animal rescue. |
| Question: | Are these treat hard? My mare will not eat hard treats. thank you |
| Answer: | No it does not have molasses in them, my horse loves em, was once told by a cowboy friend that if put in a bowl with milk they taste like applejacks lol |
| Question: | Is it 3 5lb bags or 3.5lb bag |
| Answer: | No use by date, that I can find on the bag |
| Question: | Ingredients?? Not listed here or on Purina's website |
| Answer: | apples and oats i think, horses liked them |
3 Pack) Miller Manufacturing HP-2 4-Quart Rubber Feed Pans
Miller
Product description
(3 Pack) Miller Manufacturing HP-2 4-Quart Rubber Feed Pans. Products made under Miller Manufacturing brand have a reputation for being tough and durable. They help hobby farmers, ranchers and breeders get the job done right.
- (3 Pack) Miller Manufacturing HP-2 4-Quart Rubber Feed Pans
- Duraflex tubs and buckets are molded from the finest corded rubber for maximum strength and durability
- Crack, freeze, and crush proof
- Ideal for watering and feeding farm animals
- For horses, cattle, and hogs
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the bottom diameter of these? Thank you |
| Answer: | It comes with hardware you can use to attach it to your trailer (you will need to drill holes in the metal). Attach it to cross supports in the trailer. One of mine is currently in my LQ tack room, hanging from two hooks on the divider with two strong magnets holding it on the bottom. This works as well until I decide where I want it to be permanently. I also have one in my two horse and it is attached, using provided hardware, to the inside of the tack room. |
| Question: | Are these big enough to feed donkeys and goats |
| Answer: | I have a warmblood and it fit her |
| Question: | Can you put these in a dishwasher |
| Answer: | The color on the headstall is lime green not mint. |
| Question: | Can these be cleaned with a bleach solution to disinfect between rescue dogs |
| Answer: | I think this would be a little snug-fitting for your horse. I bought this headstall for my 3 year old TN Walking Horse filly who is 14.8 hh and growing. Her Mom is 16 hh. with a large head, and it is snug on her. I only put it on my mare once and it rubbed her face, so I won't use it with her again. It has a little room for growing on my filly whose head is not as big as her Mom. I think she took after the stallion with her head size. If she gets as big as her Mom, I will be purchasing another one that is a little bigger. |
Dr. Pol's Healthy Balance Farmland Recipe Horse Feed (40 lb)
Dr. Pol
Product description
DR. POL’S PRACTICAL APPROACH
My Veterinarian Inspired Extraordinary Extruded Recipes are based upon the animal nutrition experience I’ve gained over the course of my 45+ year career. Ultimately learning when it comes to animals, simple is the best way to support a long, happy life. These extruded diets are wholesome blends gently cooked into unique shapes that help improve food intake and digestion. These diets will feed great, nourish your animal from the inside out and have them licking the feeder for more. You’ll be amazed at the results!
- Dr. Pol horse feed is extruded to help solve common frustrations to traditional pelleted or texturized feeds
- Extruded feeds are gently cooked into easy-to-eat shapes and have little, to no, waste unlike traditional feeds which means you’ll save money
- Higher in caloric density, Dr. Pol horse feeds are fed at fewer pounds of food per day than traditional pellets and are equal by volume: 40 Lbs. of extruded feed is an equal volume to 50 Lbs. of pellets
- Fixed formula with added vitamins and minerals provide consistent, balanced nutrition and help to reduce choke/cholic by dissolving in the saliva which is excellent for horses with missing, or bad, teeth
- Superior digestibility, nutrient absorption and gut health by breaking down protein and carbohydrate bonds in the cooking process which stimulates physical activity, enhances coat health and promotes lean muscle growth - Low sugar formula that is rich in vegetable oil helps to prevent horses from getting “hot”, gassy or fussy from indigestion discomfort
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