Forage analysis for horses

Why Forage Analysis Is Essential for Every Horse Owner

When it comes to feeding our horses, the focus is often on pellets, grains, and supplements. But did you know that forage, hay or silage, typically makes up 70% to 100% of a horse’s daily diet? That means the quality of your roughage plays a much bigger role in your horse’s health than most people think. And to truly understand what your horse is eating, a forage analysis is key.

What is a forage analysis?

A forage analysis is a lab test that tells you exactly what’s in the hay or haylage you feed. It gives you crucial insights such as:

• Dry Matter (DM) – how much of the feed is actual dry nutrients vs moisture
• Energy (VEM) – how much usable energy it contains
• Crude Protein (CP) – essential for muscles, tissue repair, and metabolism
• Water-Soluble Carbohydrates (WSC/sugars) – especially important for horses with metabolic issues
• Fiber content (NDF) – vital for gut health and digestion
• Minerals and trace elements – like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc

This information is vital for creating a balanced diet. Because while your hay may look and smell great, that says nothing about its nutritional value.

Why is it so important?

Feeding without analysis is guesswork. And when it comes to horses, that can lead to problems:

• Too much energy or sugar: overweight horses, laminitis risk, behavioral issues
• Too little protein: muscle loss, poor performance
• Mineral deficiencies: weak immune system, hoof or coat issues
• Low fiber levels: poor gut health, colic risk, reduced digestion

This is especially important for horses with conditions like EMS, PSSM, PPID, or insulin resistance, or for horses in training, growing foals, and pregnant mares.

Who should do a forage analysis?

Every horse owner can benefit. Whether your horse is retired, recreational, or competitive, understanding the quality of your forage is the foundation of smart feeding. With the results, you can:

• Fine-tune concentrate feed or supplements
• Avoid unnecessary or incorrect feeding
• Choose the right balancer to complement your forage
• Prevent or manage health problems

How does it work?

You take a representative sample of your hay and send it to a certified lab. Many feed advisors or veterinarians offer kits to help you do this properly. The results usually come within a few days and include a breakdown of all the key nutritional values.

If you’re unsure how to interpret the results, it’s a good idea to consult a nutritionist or your vet. Together you can build a diet that truly supports your horse’s health, no more guesswork.