Science-backed educational resources to help horse owners make more informed decisions about forage
Horses are designed to consume forage throughout the day. Hay and pasture should form the foundation of the ration, while feeds, supplements, and treats should fit thoughtfully around that base. Understanding forage, sugar, starch, NSC, HC, and metabolic status can help caretakers make more informed choices for their horses.
Forage is the cornerstone of a horse's diet, providing essential nutrients and promoting healthy digestive function. The type of forage fed can significantly impact the horse's digestive system, influencing everything from gut health to energy levels.
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Forages are a vital part of a horse's diet, providing fiber for digestive health. Forages are classified into two categories: long-stem and short-stem. Each type offers distinct advantages.
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Insulin resistance (IR) is one of the most common—and most overlooked—metabolic issues in modern horses. Current research estimates that approximately 25% of horses in the United States are insulin resistant.
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For horses with insulin dysregulation, equine metabolic syndrome, PPID with elevated insulin, obesity, or a history of laminitis, the carbohydrate content of hay, feed, carriers, and treats can matter. But the front of a label does not always tell you enough.
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In every barn, there’s one constant: treats. Whether it’s to reward good behavior, build trust, or simply share a moment of connection, offering a treat can feel like second nature. But here’s the often-overlooked truth—treats aren’t just harmless extras.
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A forage analysis is a laboratory measurement of the nutrients in hay, haylage, or pasture. We’ll explain ESC, WSC, NSC, HC, fructans, fiber, protein, and minerals in plain language, then show how to use those numbers as a data point—not a rigid rule.
Read Article →The Merck Veterinary Manual, summarizing NRC guidance, gives a general range of 1.5–2% of body weight per day in forage dry matter. For a 1,000-pound horse, that’s 15–20 pounds of dry matter; pasture and other forage count toward the total. Individual needs vary.
UC Davis recommends weighing hay rather than counting flakes, since their weights vary. Also account for hay left uneaten.
For horses that chew comfortably, long-stem hay or pasture is preferred because it encourages longer chewing and natural foraging time while providing fiber for normal hindgut fermentation. Short-stem options—such as chopped forage, cubes, or pellets—can be important alternatives for horses with dental problems or difficulty eating hay. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that the best choice depends on the horse; some cubes or pellets may need soaking.
Hay testing can be helpful, but it isn’t an absolute requirement or a perfect answer. As University of Minnesota Extension explains, storage conditions can affect forage quality over time, and a test describes the sample tested—not necessarily every bale or the hay’s condition months later. Use test results as one data point alongside your horse’s needs, hay storage and feeding history, and professional guidance.
No. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that forage nutrient content varies and that some horses may need additional nutrients; a forage test and review of the full diet can help identify gaps. For many horses, balancing the diet means adding vitamins and minerals, while some also need additional calories and protein based on their individual needs.
Possibly. UC Davis identifies insulin dysregulation as central to EMS and notes that affected horses are at higher risk of laminitis. If your veterinarian recommends soaking hay, it can reduce water-soluble carbohydrates (sugars) and potassium; prolonged soaking may also reduce dry matter and phosphorus. Discuss the full forage plan with your veterinarian.
Yes. Any unexplained regional fat deposits should be treated as a warning sign and discussed with your veterinarian. UC Davis notes that obesity and fat deposits can be associated with EMS, though they don’t confirm a diagnosis on their own.
Needs vary by individual. The Merck Veterinary Manual describes barley straw as part of a lower-energy forage ration for donkeys, alongside moderate-quality hay or pasture. Straw may help maintain chewing time while reducing calorie intake, but the whole ration still needs to meet the animal’s nutrient needs.
When we developed Grazers Nutri-Treats, we applied the same educational principles discussed throughout this resource center.
Educational information only, intended to help honor the unique experience of the horse in front of you. This guide is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your horse's individual nutritional needs.
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