Horse Feed Calculator

How to Calculate a Horse's Daily Forage Needs

Horses are typically fed a daily amount of hay or forage equal to a percentage of their body weight — a standard equine guideline is roughly 1.5-2.5% of body weight per day, with the exact figure rising with how much work the horse does. This calculator applies that guideline based on the horse's weight and activity level.

An idle or maintenance-level horse is estimated at 1.5% of body weight, light work at 1.75%, moderate work at 2%, and heavy work at 2.5% — reflecting the higher energy demands of more strenuous exercise.

Example

A 1,000 lb horse in moderate work needs about 1,000 × 2% = 20 lb of hay or forage per day (roughly 9.1 kg). The same horse at heavy work would need closer to 25 lb per day.

Common Use Cases

FAQs

Is this exact for every horse?

No — this is a general guideline based on body weight and activity level. Individual horses vary based on metabolism, breed, age, body condition, and health status. Always work with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to fine-tune a feeding plan for a specific horse.

Does this include grain or concentrate feed?

No — this figure is for forage (hay or pasture) only, which should make up the bulk of a horse's diet. Horses in heavier work often need additional grain or concentrate feed on top of their forage ration to meet their full energy needs.

How do I know my horse's activity level?

Idle covers horses at rest or on very light pasture turnout. Light work includes occasional riding or light training. Moderate work covers regular riding, training, or showing. Heavy work applies to horses in intense training, racing, or heavy draft or ranch work.