Forage First: Why Hay & Pasture Are the Foundation of Equine Nutrition

When it comes to feeding horses, there’s one golden rule that never goes out of style: start with forage. Whether it’s lush pasture in the summer or high-quality hay in the winter, forage is the cornerstone of a healthy equine diet. But why is it so essential—and what does it mean to truly put forage first?

When it comes to feeding horses, there’s one golden rule that never goes out of style: start with forage. Whether it’s lush pasture in the summer or high-quality hay in the winter, forage is the cornerstone of a healthy equine diet. But why is it so essential—and what does it mean to truly put forage first?

The Natural Diet of Horses

Horses are grazing animals by design. Their digestive systems are built to process small amounts of fibrous forage continuously throughout the day. In fact, about 60% of a horse’s digestive tract is dedicated to fermenting forage. This means hay and pasture aren’t just fillers—they’re fuel.

The Nutritional Power of Forage

Contrary to the myth that forage is only for “bulk,” hay and pasture provide a wide range of nutrients. Depending on the type and maturity of the forage, horses can get significant calories, protein, and essential minerals from it. Legume hays like alfalfa, for example, are higher in protein and calcium, making them excellent for buffering stomach acid and supporting muscle development. To easily incorporate high quality alfalfa products into your horse’s diet, check out our Country Companion forage products!

Digestive Health & Behavior Benefits

Feeding forage first helps stimulate saliva production, which buffers stomach acid and reduces the risk of ulcers. It also slows down feed intake, reducing the chances of choke and promoting a healthier gut environment. Horses that have access to forage are often calmer and more content, as their natural grazing instincts are satisfied.

Forage in the Real World

Forage and pasture make up about half of the average horse’s diet, with the rest coming from commercial feed, straight grains, and supplements. However, the trend toward increased grain use suggests a need to re-emphasize the foundational role of forage—especially as horse owners seek more holistic and health-conscious feeding strategies.

Practical Tips for a Forage-First Diet

• Aim for 1.5–2% of body weight in forage daily. For a 1,200-pound horse, that’s 18–24 pounds of hay or pasture.
• Choose quality over quantity. Look for fine-stemmed, leafy, green hay with no mold or dust.
• Transition slowly. Whether switching from pasture to hay or between hay types, make changes gradually to avoid digestive upset.
• Balance with feed only as needed. Use commercial feed to fill nutritional gaps—not as the main event.

Final Thoughts

Putting forage first isn’t just a feeding strategy—it’s a philosophy rooted in the horse’s biology and well-being. By prioritizing hay and pasture, you’re not only honoring how horses are meant to eat, but also setting the stage for better health, behavior, and performance.

Country Companion is committed to being your partner in building a strong nutritional foundation for your horse.  Proudly made in the USA, our forage products are crafted with care to provide consistent, dependable nutrition. For high-quality feed and forage products, explore our options at Equine & Multi-Species Feed – Country Companion