What Are Forage Products and How Do They Fit into a Horse’s Diet?
When it comes to equine health and nutrition, few topics are more crucial than understanding the role of forage products. Forage is the cornerstone of a horse’s diet. From recreational riders to competitive equestrians, horse owners increasingly recognize that quality forage is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, providing steady energy, and ensuring overall wellness.
Understanding Forage Products
Forage products are plant-based materials specifically processed and packaged to meet the dietary needs of horses. Unlike other feeds, which may include grains and other additives, forage is derived primarily from grasses and legumes. The two main types of bagged forage products used in equine diets are pellets and cubes.
Pelleted Forage
Pellets are made by grinding down forages such as alfalfa or timothy grass and then compressing the material into small, uniform pieces. Pellets offer consistent nutritional value, are easy to handle and store, and can be an excellent way to supplement a horse’s primary forage source. However, it’s important to note that pellets are not a replacement for a full forage diet. They are best used as a nutritional supplement in conjunction with cubes.
Cubed Forage
Cubes are a more substantial form of processed forage. They are made by coarsely chopping forages and compressing them into dense, square-shaped blocks. Cubes maintain much of the original plant structure, which helps encourage chewing and saliva production, which is crucial for digestive health. For high-performance horses and those with greater nutritional needs, cubed forage is the ideal primary source due to its high quality and digestibility.
The Role of Forage in a Horse’s Diet
Horses are natural grazers designed to consume small amounts of fibrous material throughout the day. In a domesticated setting, providing free access to pasture is not always feasible, which is where forage products come into play. Whether in pellet or cube form, forage serves several vital functions:
Supports Digestive Health
The equine digestive system is uniquely adapted to process large volumes of fiber. Forage products help maintain gut motility, reduce the risk of colic, and support the microbial population in the hindgut. Regular, fiber-rich feeding also prevents stomach ulcers, a common issue in performance horses.
Provides Steady Energy
Unlike high-starch feeds that can cause energy spikes and crashes, forage offers a slow-release energy source. This makes it ideal for sustained activity, particularly for endurance or performance horses. Cubed forage, in particular, is nutrient-dense and can meet the energy requirements of high-performing equine athletes.
Maintains a Healthy Weight
Forage products play a critical role in weight management. Underweight horses benefit from the dense nutrients in forage cubes, while overweight horses can be maintained on low-calorie, high-fiber pellets that provide satiety without adding excessive calories.
Encourages Natural Chewing Behavior
Chewing is more than a feeding activity; it’s a mental and physical necessity for horses. Cubed forage encourages more thorough chewing compared to pellets, which helps prevent dental issues and keeps horses mentally engaged.
Choosing the Right Forage Product
Not all forage products are created equal. Selecting the right type depends on the horse’s age, health status, activity level, and specific dietary needs.
For Performance Horses
Horses engaged in high-intensity training or competition require a higher plane of nutrition. For these equine athletes, cubed or pelleted alfalfa is the superior choice, offering high protein levels, balanced mineral content, and excellent digestibility. At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recommend our premium forage cubes for these horses to ensure they perform at their peak.
For Senior Horses
Older horses often struggle with dental issues that make chewing long-stem forage difficult. Both cubes and pellets are excellent alternatives. Soaking forage products for 30 minutes or until softened is recommended, but not mandatory. This helps make it easier to chew and digest.
For Horses with Metabolic Concerns
For horses prone to conditions like insulin resistance or laminitis, selecting a low-starch, high-fiber forage pellet is ideal. These horses benefit from consistent fiber intake without the risk of sugar spikes.
For Easy Keepers
Horses that maintain weight easily or are on restricted diets can thrive on a regimen of primarily forage pellets with controlled portions. This feeding strategy supports their nutritional needs without encouraging weight gain.
Best Practices for Feeding Forage Products
Implementing forage products into a horse’s diet requires a thoughtful approach to ensure optimal benefits.
Transition Gradually
Switching to a new forage product should be done over 7-10 days to allow the horse’s digestive system to adjust. Start with small amounts and gradually increase the quantity.
Monitor Hydration
Forage cubes and pellets are drier than fresh forage. Always ensure fresh water is available and consider soaking the products for 30 minutes or until softened to aid in digestion and hydration.
Feed by Weight, Not Volume
If you use a scoop instead of a scale, it’s easy to misjudge how much forage your horse is receiving. Feeding by weight ensures the horse gets the appropriate amount of fiber and nutrients.
Store Properly
Bagged forage products should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and spoilage. At Greenway Animal Nutrition, our products are sealed for freshness and designed for long-term storage without compromising quality.
Why Quality Matters
The quality of forage products directly influences a horse’s health. Contaminants like mold, dust, or foreign materials can cause severe health problems. That’s why sourcing your forage from a reputable provider is essential.
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we prioritize quality at every step of the process—from sourcing premium grasses and legumes to our meticulous processing methods. Our forage cubes and pellets are produced in state-of-the-art facilities that adhere to strict safety and nutritional standards. We test for consistency, nutrient content, and cleanliness so you can feed your horses with confidence.
Greenway Animal Nutrition: Your Trusted Partner in Equine Health
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products designed to meet the needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers. Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a herd on your farm, our diverse selection of forage pellets and cubes provides a reliable feeding solution.
Our mission is not just to supply exceptional forage products but to support a community of horse enthusiasts who believe in responsible care and nutrition. We are proud to give back through education, partnerships, and community involvement, helping you make the best decisions for your animals.
Partner with Us Today
Your horse deserves the best, and that starts with the right forage. Don’t leave their health to chance. Choose Greenway Animal Nutrition for high-quality, nutrient-rich forage products tailored to your horse’s unique needs.
Explore our range of forage cubes, pellets, and bedding solutions today. Reach out to us to learn more, get expert advice, or place your order. Take the next step in elevating your horse’s diet and well-being!