Proper nutrition is one of the most important elements of equine health, yet it’s surprisingly easy to overlook. Horses, especially those with specific workloads or unique metabolic needs, can show subtle signs when their diet isn’t quite right. These signs are often misread or brushed off as quirks of behavior, age, or training. But behind the scenes, a nutritional imbalance could be quietly taking a toll on your horse’s well-being.
Here are seven signs your horse might not be getting the right nutrition—and why it’s worth paying attention.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
It’s tempting to assume that weight changes in horses are related to work level or seasonal shifts. But if your horse is gradually losing weight despite adequate hay and feed—or gaining weight without an increase in grain—it may signal a deeper issue with their diet.
Weight loss could be caused by poor forage quality, an inability to properly digest certain feed ingredients, or even competition between herd members at feeding time. On the other hand, sudden weight gain might indicate overfeeding, lack of exercise, or feeding high-starch grain to a horse with low energy needs. The right balance of protein, fiber, and fat for your individual horse matters more than the brand on the feed bag.
2. Dull Coat or Poor Hoof Quality
A healthy coat and strong hooves are often reliable indicators of a well-balanced diet. If your horse’s coat is dull, rough to the touch, or slow to shed in the spring, something may be missing nutritionally. Hooves that crack easily or are slow to grow may reflect low biotin, zinc, or overall protein levels in the diet.
Most horses benefit from a balanced vitamin and mineral supplement, especially if they are eating mostly hay without access to fresh pasture. Keep in mind that forage-only diets, while natural, are often low in key micronutrients needed for coat and hoof integrity.
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