Nutrition
What does a horse eat? Basic feeding plan for leisure and sport horses
Hay, water, minerals — that's the foundation. But what does your horse really need, and when is concentrate feed useful? A practical overview for amateur riders.
Published: 3/22/2026
EquiSight Editorial
Redactie · EquiSight · SaFleu Equestrian Centre BV
The roughage foundation
1.5%–2% of body weight per day in roughage (hay/haylage). A 500kg horse: 7.5–10kg of hay. Too little roughage = gastric ulcers, too much = obesity.
Water — underestimated
20–50 litres per day, more in heat or during work. Make sure it is always clean and (ideally) lukewarm in winter.
Minerals and salt
- A mineral supplement or mineral block in the stable
- Salt (NaCl) loose or in lick form — horses sweat out salt
- Selenium supplementation where appropriate, depending on region
When is concentrate feed needed?
- For sport work from 5+ intense sessions per week
- During pregnancy (last 3 months) and lactation
- For senior horses experiencing weight loss
- During cold winters for older horses
Practical feeding plan checklist
- Hay available at all times (a slow feeder helps)
- Fresh, clean water
- Minerals accessible
- Concentrate feed only when indicated
- Track weight or use a measuring tape weekly