Roughage, the basis of a healthy horse ration

What is forage and why is it so important?

Forage is a collective term for mown and (dried or fresh) grasses and herbs, such as grass, hay, and silage. It contains crude fibers essential for healthy gut function.

While chewing forage, the horse produces saliva, which helps protect the stomach from acid and stimulates digestion. The fibers also keep the intestines active, promote a stable gut flora, and provide up to 90% of the horse’s energy needs.

Forage? Yes! But only forage? No!

Although forage forms the basis of every ration, it is not always sufficient to meet all nutritional needs. Forage quality can vary greatly: from batch to batch and from year to year.

Protein content can range from 5% to 20%, while sugar content can vary from 5% to even 23%.

• Ideal hay for sport horses: about 10% protein and 8–10% sugar.

• For broodmares and young horses: slightly more protein is desirable, as growth and milk production require more building blocks.

Factors such as fertilization, grass varieties, weather conditions (cold nights with lots of sun cause high fructan levels), and mowing time significantly influence forage quality.

Even with an experienced eye, it is difficult to accurately assess hay’s nutritional value. A laboratory analysis remains the only reliable way to know what you are feeding.

Forage shortages and quality fluctuations

In some periods, good forage is hard to obtain, such as during dry summers or wet harvest years. Additionally, some forage batches may be too dusty, too high in sugar, or too low in protein.

Horses with dental problems, sensitive airways, or higher energy needs often benefit from a forage substitute or supplement.

How much forage does your horse need?

A horse should consume at least 1.5 to 2% of its body weight in dry matter from forage daily. For a 600 kg horse, that means about 9–12 kg of dry matter, or approximately 10–14 kg of hay per day.

Depending on work and age, the ratio between forage and concentrate is as follows:

• Foals and young horses: 75% forage – 25% concentrate

• Horses at maintenance: 80% forage – 20% concentrate

• Horses in training: 60% forage – 40% concentrate

When forage is not enough: the power of forage substitutes

Forage substitutes are designed to compensate for shortages or quality issues in basic forage. They provide high-quality fibers, proteins, and energy in a consistent composition, without the risks of mold, dust, or excessive sugar levels.

Equilannoo offers high-quality solutions for every forage need

Equilannoo products are carefully formulated to support or (partially) replace natural forage. They are rich in fibers, easily digestible, and tailored to the specific needs of different horses.

Fiber Mash, the tasty forage supplement

Equilannoo Fiber Mash is an ideal addition to the daily ration. The combination of pulp and alfalfa increases forage intake, supports digestion, and helps horses gain healthy weight.

Perfect tasty mash for horses needing extra fibers or a high-quality forage substitute.

Fiber All-in-One, complete forage and concentrate in one

Equilannoo Fiber All-in-One combines the best of both worlds: high-quality forage with vegetable oil, vitamins, and minerals.

This unique mix provides all necessary fibers, proteins, and energy, ideal for horses and ponies in light to moderate work.

Key benefits:

• Easily digestible fibers

• Contains Linamix for healthy fatty acids

• High-quality proteins for muscle development

• Complete nutrition in one product

Soft Fiber, soft, alfalfa-free fibers

For horses sensitive to alfalfa or sugar, there is Equilannoo Soft Fiber.

This mix of dried grasses, grass pellets, lupine, pea, and carrot flakes provides soft, slowly digestible fibers.

Benefits:

• Low in sugar and starch

• With herbs and Linamix

• Alfalfa-free

• Promotes calm chewing and healthy gut function

Fiber Wafer, concentrated forage block

Equilannoo Fiber Wafer consists of three types of grasses: sainfoin, timothy, and alfalfa, without molasses or added sugars.

The addition of carrot flakes and apple pulp makes the feed extra tasty.

Usage:

• As partial or complete forage replacement

• To mix with concentrates or supplements

Healthy Fiber Mix for optimal digestive support

Equilannoo Healthy Fiber Mix stimulates chewing and saliva production and supports gut health thanks to Digestive Support.

An excellent choice for horses with sensitive intestines or a need for extra fiber diversity.

Conclusion

Forage forms the basis of every horse ration, but quality and nutritional value can vary greatly. Shortages of protein, energy, or fibers can lead to digestive problems, loss of condition, or behavioral changes.

Equilannoo forage substitutes offer a reliable, tasty, and balanced solution to optimize any ration, from foal to (top) sport horse.

Forage? Yes! Only forage? No!

Choose quality, stability, and health. Choose Equilannoo forage solutions.