How much hay to feed a horse in winter?

An estimate is not an individual ration

For a winter stock estimate, University of Maryland uses hay equal to 2% of bodyweight daily: 20 lb for a mature 1,000 lb horse. That illustrates the scale, not a ration for every horse. Its calculation then adds storage and feeding losses separately.

A research review by Harris and colleagues places the lower daily forage boundary at 15 g dry matter per kg bodyweight. Lower amounts require exceptional clinical circumstances and veterinary supervision. Pasture, other forage, hay quality, work and body condition all matter; replacing hay pound-for-pound with grain is not a general feeding rule.

How much is actually used?

Weigh portions on the same scale and record leftovers. Stock use is not the same as intake: record wet, contaminated or trampled hay separately. Discuss unexpected appetite or condition changes with your vet or nutrition adviser.

A stock example

Replace every example with your own instructions and measured bale weights.

Winter: check water and condition

Dry feed contains less water than fresh grass. University of Minnesota describes how poor water intake can increase impaction-colic risk. Check troughs, pipes and whether every horse can actually drink. Cold can change energy needs; do not add a fixed winter percentage without reviewing the diet.

Assess the hay’s composition

Colour and smell do not measure sugar or minerals. Ask about the batch and an analysis when needed for the feeding plan. Record whether results are on a dry-matter or as-fed basis; those values are not directly equivalent.

Convert dry matter to weighed feed

These examples supply the same dry-matter weight, not the same nutrition. Energy, protein and minerals may differ. Use batch analysis rather than guessing moisture from appearance.

Turn the amount into a workable feeding plan

• Record the batch and amounts offered across day and night. Avoid prolonged periods without an opportunity to eat forage.
• In a group, check that each horse reaches the forage without being driven away. A group average cannot establish individual intake.
• Change forage batches or types gradually, with advice for sensitive horses or major differences in composition.
• Check for unusual smell, dust, mould and contamination. Do not feed suspect hay; arrange suitable replacement forage.
• Track weight and body condition consistently. A thick winter coat can hide weight loss.
• Keep hay dry and inspect storage. Record storage and feeding waste separately from the amount intended for the horse.
• Call your vet for a sudden drop in appetite, reduced droppings or colic signs. Do not address these only by changing hay quantity.