Roughage for horses

Forage forms the foundation of a horse’s diet and is essential for its health and well-being. A well-balanced forage ration supports the horse's digestive system and helps maintain an optimal weight. In this article, we explore different types of forage and their specific benefits for horses.

Different types of forage:

• Hay: Hay is the most common form of forage for horses and comes in several varieties, such as timothy, meadow grass, and alfalfa. The nutritional value of hay varies depending on when it is harvested and how it is stored. Timothy hay is high in fiber but low in protein, making it ideal for low-performance and/or easy-keeper horses. Alfalfa hay, on the other hand, has higher protein and calcium content, which is beneficial for pregnant mares, growing young horses, and high-performance sport horses.

• Straw: Straw, such as oat straw, is mostly used as bedding material but can be used as feed in emergencies. However, it is low in nutritional value and should only be used when better options are not available. Straw can be an excellent complement to hay to increase the horse’s chewing time and give it something to occupy itself with if the hay ration needs to be reduced due to, for example, overweight.

• Silage and haylage: Silage and haylage are moist forages that are fermented under controlled conditions. These types of feed are particularly popular in areas where wet climates make traditional hay drying difficult. They have higher nutritional content than traditional hay and can be an excellent option for horses that need extra energy or for horses with respiratory issues, as dust from dry hay can aggravate such conditions.

Benefits of different forages:

• Hay: Contributes to slow digestion and promotes gut health due to its high fiber content.
• Alfalfa hay: Supports growth and reproduction thanks to its higher protein and calcium content.
• Silage and haylage: Can prevent weight loss during the winter months and are easier to digest, making them a good choice for older horses.

Summary: Understanding which type of forage is best for your horse is crucial to ensuring its health and performance. Each type of forage has its unique benefits, and the choice should be based on the horse’s individual nutritional needs, its health status, and workload.