Start with body weight
Forage plans should begin with a realistic weight estimate, not “one flake” or “one net.” Flake weights vary dramatically.
Think in dry matter
Many adult horses consume around 1.5–2% of body weight per day as forage dry matter, but individual needs vary. Weight loss, metabolic disease, pregnancy, growth and performance require individualized plans.
Weigh actual hay
A luggage or hanging scale can reveal whether your flakes are 1.5 kg or 4 kg. That difference is too large to guess.
Use body condition and trend
The correct ration keeps the horse at an appropriate body condition while supporting work, health and behavior. Reweigh or tape periodically.
Forage analysis adds precision
Sugar, protein, minerals and energy vary by cutting and field. A forage analysis makes supplement choices far more rational.