Nutrition

What horses eat and drink, how feeding routines work, and safe rules for treats.

Food choices affect a horse’s energy, mood, and health. Learn the basics first.

The basics

Horses need water all day.
Most horses eat lots of hay or grass.
Treats can be fun, but rules keep everyone safe.

Step-by-step lesson

LessonNutrition Basics: Hay + Water

Key words

TermHay TermFeed TermHydration TermTreat

Nutrition topics(7)

Water

Horses need clean water all day. Tell an adult if a bucket is empty or dirty.

Do not change water routines without permission.

Hay

Hay is dried grass and is a main food for many horses.

Ask an adult before giving extra hay.

Pasture (Grass)

Grass can be a great food. Some horses need limited grass, so rules matter.

Do not let a horse graze unless your instructor says it’s okay.

Grain / Pellets

Some horses eat grain or pellets for extra energy. Only adults should measure feed.

Never change amounts on your own.

Salt

Many horses have a salt block available. Tell an adult if it’s gone.

Ask before replacing blocks.

Salt Block

Treats

Treats are optional. Always ask first and use safe hand-feeding rules.

Use a flat palm.

Feeding Routine

Horses do best when meals happen at the same time each day.

Don’t feed outside the schedule.

Routine

Nutrition lessons(2)

In the news

Recent Horse Academy stories on this topic.