A fit, happy horse doesn’t start in the arena—it starts in the stable. Whether you’re competing at a high level or simply enjoying weekend rides, your horse’s health is essential to performance, well-being, and longevity. At the heart of good health lies a strong foundation: proper nutrition, thoughtful care, and smart prevention.

Forage First: The Natural Diet of the Horse

Horses are natural grazers. Their digestive system is built for continuous intake of small amounts of forage throughout the day. That’s why forage should always form the basis of your horse’s diet. High-quality hay or haylage is non-negotiable and should be readily available at all times.

A general guideline: a horse needs 1.5–2% of its body weight in dry forage daily. For a 600 kg horse, this means about 9 to 12 kg of hay each day.

Concentrated feeds, such as grains and performance mixes, should only supplement the diet—especially for sport horses with higher energy requirements. But beware: overfeeding grain can lead to digestive upset or behavioral changes.

Hydration and Salt Balance: Often Overlooked Essentials

Water is just as important as feed. A horse drinks between 20 to 40 liters of water per day, often more in hot weather or after intense exercise. Ensure clean, fresh water is always available. Adding a salt lick or electrolytes helps replenish minerals lost through sweat—particularly important for horses in training.

Supplements: Useful, But Not a Shortcut

Supplements are everywhere, but they aren’t magic. Used wisely, they can fill nutritional gaps or support specific needs, such as joint health or immune function. Popular options include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin-mineral complexes, and joint support products like glucosamine.

However, supplements should complement—not replace—a balanced diet. When unsure, always consult your vet or an equine nutritionist.

Preventive Care: Small Steps, Big Impact

Feeding your horse well is only half the story. Preventive healthcare is key to keeping your sport horse sound and thriving:

• Dental care: Annual check-ups prevent sharp edges and discomfort while eating or riding.
• Deworming: Tailored to fecal tests, to prevent resistance.
• Vaccinations: Tetanus and influenza vaccines are required for sport horses and protect against serious disease.
• Hoof care: Regular visits from a qualified farrier help maintain healthy movement and prevent lameness.
• Early warning signs: Be alert to stiffness, appetite changes, unusual behavior, or lameness—these can signal deeper health issues.

Feeding for Performance

Sport horses in training have higher nutritional demands. Intense exercise calls for more energy and quality protein to support muscle development and recovery. Monitor your horse’s condition closely to balance energy intake with output, avoiding both excess weight and deficiencies.

Seasonal changes also play a role:

• Winter: Increased energy needs for warmth.
• Summer: Focus on hydration, electrolyte balance, and insect control.

Every Horse is Unique

No two horses are alike. Their individual needs depend on age, workload, temperament, and health status. By investing in quality feed, preventive care, and continuous learning, you not only enhance your horse’s performance—you also lay the foundation for a longer, healthier life.

Conclusion: Good Management = A Fit, Happy Sport Horse

Caring for a sport horse goes far beyond riding. It starts with the basics: balanced nutrition, preventive healthcare, and close observation. When these pieces come together, you’re not just managing your horse—you’re setting them up to thrive. Are you looking to buy a sport horse or are you looking to sell one? Then be sure to check out Sporthorses.co.uk – the leading platform for buying and selling sport horses.