The horse must have a minimum of 1 pound of roughage per 100 pounds of body weight per day. Reserve the highest quality hay at your disposal for your youngest and oldest horses. Senior animals are less resistant to drought conditions, and their younger counterparts require more nutrients to grow. Monitor changes in weight loss or body condition score. Choose concentrates with higher levels of fat and protein for both younger and older horses.
Water intake is critical.
This is particularly true for active animals or animals in a high-temperature environment. Equally important is water quality. Active animals, or horses under training with a moderate level of intensity, require particular attention. Owners should monitor the animals' calcium, phosphorous, and mineral balance. Monitor noxious, opportunistic weeds in areas where horses might graze.