What type of feeding is important for horses throughout the day?

Horses are natural grazers, designed to consume small amounts of food throughout the day. Therefore, providing plenty of roughage, such as hay, is essential for their digestive health. Roughage contains fiber, which is crucial for maintaining proper gut function, promoting salivation, and preventing conditions like colic and digestive upset.

Additionally, a diet high in roughage supports the horse's natural foraging behavior, which helps reduce boredom and promote mental well-being. This type of feeding mimics their natural intake in the wild, where they would spend many hours grazing on grass and other fibrous plants.

While high protein supplements, concentrated pelleted feed, and grains can be part of a horse's diet, they do not adequately replace the need for roughage. These options are typically more concentrated sources of energy or nutrients and should be given in moderation, ensuring that roughage remains the primary component of their daily feed regimen.