A horse’s natural diet consists mostly of forage. Horses eat grass and hay as their primary food sources, which provide the fiber they need to maintain a healthy gut.
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Most horse owners ensure their horses have access to high-quality pasture grass or grass hay to mimic what wild horses eat in nature. A stabled horse that doesn’t have access to fresh grass and hay must be provided with other options, like horse feed.
Commercial horse feed is designed to provide extra calories, protein and vitamins that horses may not get from hay alone.
Some horse owners provide healthy treats like carrots, apples and even the occasional sugar cube as a reward. (Too much sugar is bad for horses, though!)
Unlike humans, who eat large meals at specific times, horses graze continuously to support their digestion. Since their digestive system is sensitive, sudden changes in diet can lead to serious health problems.
