Why Hay Alone Is Not Enough for Horses
By Annie Emery, MS CRC CESMT CENA
Revolution Equine Nutrition, LLC
Recently, a trend has emerged on social media advocating for “hay only” or forage-only diets for horses. This approach suggests that horses can thrive solely on hay and grass, without any minerals, supplements, or concentrates.
However, this so-called “natural” diet is not recommended, and there are important reasons why.
Despite available education on this topic, many horse owners continue to be misled about the nutritional needs of their equine companions. Let's explore the facts behind proper equine nutrition and why hay alone is insufficient to met any horses’ nutrition needs.
Feeding hay alone will never meet a horse's recommended daily allowance (RDA) for essential nutrients. While hay is an excellent source of fiber, it lacks adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals required for optimal health, particularly for performance and growing horses. Yes, that means your “easy keeper” too!
The Importance of Balanced Nutrition
Horses have unique nutritional needs that vary based on their age, activity level, and overall health. A diet consisting solely of hay will lead to nutrient deficiencies that can have serious consequences. For instance, nutrient deficiencies can result in:
Poor Coat Condition: A dull, lackluster coat may indicate a deficiency in essential fatty acids, vitamins, or minerals.
Muscle Loss: Insufficient protein intake can lead to muscle wasting and an inability to maintain muscle tone, particularly along the topline. Many hays are testing low in protein due to drought and other stresses.
Reduced Energy Levels: Horses may become lethargic or tire easily during work, signaling that they are not receiving adequate energy from their diet.
The Hidden Risks of Nutrient Deficiencies
It’s crucial to recognize that deficiencies aren’t always visible. Body condition is only one aspect of a horse’s overall health.
For example, a 1,200 lb horse in medium work that relies solely on 25 lbs of mixed grass hay will likely be deficient in several essential nutrients, including:
Copper
Zinc
Iodine
Folic Acid
Selenium
Vitamin E
Phosphorus
Sodium
These deficiencies can lead to significant health problems over time.
Recommendations for Optimal Health
To ensure your horse remains healthy and performs well, it is essential to supplement hay with additional nutritional sources.
Here are some steps to consider:
Consult a Nutrition Professional: A qualified equine nutrition professional can help tailor a diet that meets your horse’s specific needs based on their activity level, age, and health status. You horse is unique and the diet should be too! The National Research Council (NRC) tell us how much your needs of every nutrient. No guessing needed!
Incorporate Ration Balancers: These products can provide the essential vitamins and minerals that hay often lacks. They are typically low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a perfect complement to a forage-based diet for easy keepers. Talk to me for guidance and to know if this is the right class for your horse.
Monitor Forage Quality: Regular hay analysis can help you understand the nutritional content of the forage and make necessary adjustments to cover gaps. It’s rare we can’t use the hay, but significant adjustments are often needed. Even though we balance to the horses needs (not just fill gaps in hay) knowing the hay quality is very important.
Add Grain or Concentrates: For performance horses or those with higher energy needs, incorporating grains or concentrated feeds can provide the additional calories required for optimal performance. If you can see the outline of ribs- your diet needs an overhaul!
Regular Health Check-ups: Keep in touch with your veterinarian to monitor your horse's health and develop a treatment plan for gastric issues, lameness, and underlying health concerns.
Mineral Tubs & Loose Minerals: Not recommended. Many horses struggle to lick these tubs properly, leading to inconsistent intake. This unregulated consumption can result in either nutrient deficiencies or toxicities. Many also contain sugar and fillers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hay alone is insufficient to meet a horse's nutritional needs. A well-balanced diet is crucial for maintaining optimal health and performance. By understanding your horse’s specific dietary requirements and working with a nutrition professional, you can ensure that they receive the nutrition they need to thrive.
For more information on equine nutrition and to schedule a consultation, contact Annie today.
Article is Copyright 2024 Revolution Equine Nutrition, LLC