Frequently Asked Questions
How much hay does a horse need per day?
A maintenance horse needs about 1.5-2% of its body weight in forage dry matter per day. For an 1,100 lb horse that is roughly 16.5-22 lb of hay DM, or about 19-25 lb as-fed hay (accounting for 12% moisture in typical hay).
What is the difference between dry matter and as-fed weight?
Dry matter is the weight of feed with all moisture removed. As-fed weight includes moisture. Hay is typically 88% DM (12% moisture), so 1 lb as-fed hay contains about 0.88 lb of dry matter. Fresh pasture can be 75-85% moisture, meaning you need much more by weight to deliver the same DM.
How do I know if my horse's body condition is correct?
The Henneke Body Condition Scoring system (1-9 scale) is the standard method. A score of 5 (moderate) is ideal for most horses: ribs are not visible but can be felt with light pressure, the back is level, and fat deposits over the withers and behind the shoulders are not prominent. Consult an equine veterinarian or nutritionist to score your horse objectively.
Should grain always be fed with horses that work hard?
Not necessarily. Many horses in light to moderate work can meet energy needs from quality forage alone, especially if good hay or pasture is available. Concentrates are added when forage alone cannot provide enough digestible energy, such as for performance horses in heavy training or hard keepers that cannot maintain weight on forage.
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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are based on assumptions and may not reflect actual outcomes. Consult qualified professionals in relevant fields before making important decisions based on these results.