Forages in the Horse's Diet, an Overview
  by Robert N. Oglesby DVM

Any foodstuff that contains at least 18% crude fiber can be classified as a forage. Forage is an essential part of the horse's diet and can come from pasture, harvested feeds like hay, and even food byproducts like beet pulp. As a minimum two thirds of a horse's diet, by weight, should consist of forage. Some show horses get by with only one half of the diet being forage, but they are at increased risk for colic, founder, and stable vices.

Getting enough good quality forage in a horse's diet can present a problem. The season, weather, large amounts of storage space required, tooth problems, heaves (COPD), and pregnancy may all contribute to finding adequate amounts of suitable forage. This article consists of an overview of available forages, their nutritional characteristics, and how they may be used in a feeding program.

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