Feeding Questions To Ask Before Bringing Home A New Horse

A crucial question to ask about your new horse's nutrition is: "What are they currently being fed?" Understanding the specific feeds and daily quantities your horse has been receiving will help us assess whether your new horse is a good-doer, a poor-doer, or average at maintaining weight. If feeding rates are given in scoops, be sure to enquire about the type of scoop used and whether the quantities refer to dry or soaked weight, especially if a mash is being fed.

As forage forms the foundation of a horse’s diet, ask what types of forage your horse is currently eating- whether it is grass, hay, haylage, or forage replacers. Also, find out if the horse generally has a good appetite for forage or if they tend to be picky.

Now is a great opportunity to discuss any past nutritional issues, such as temperament changes or negative reactions to certain feeds or ingredients. While your new horse may appear to be in good condition, it is helpful to know if they tend to fluctuate in weight, allowing you to prepare for any potential seasonal changes.

If you have gathered this information and are still unsure whether their current feeding plan is appropriate, you should consult a nutrition advisor before your horse arrives. If it is determined that their feed should be changed, we advise bringing at least a week’s worth of their current feed with you, or buying a bag of their current feed, to ensure a gradual transition onto their new ration. Changes in forage can also lead to digestive issues, so we recommend bringing some bales of hay from your horse’s previous yard, if possible, to ensure a smooth transition to their new forage as well. We generally recommend a gradual transition over 7 - 10 days for feed and forage.