When it comes to feeding horses, there’s no shortage of advice but not all of it is grounded in science. With so much outdated or misleading information still circulating in yards across the UK, it’s time to clear up some of the biggest misconceptions.
Here are 10 common equine feeding myths debunked with expert backed facts
1. Hard feed is more important than forage
Myth: Forage is just a filler – horses get what they really need from hard feed.
Truth: Horses are trickle feeders, designed to graze for up to 16 hours a day. Forage should make up at least 1.5–2% of a horse’s bodyweight per day (around 7.5–10 kg for a 500 kg horse). It maintains gut health, reduces boredom and supports the microbial population essential for digestion. Hard feed is sometimes needed for extra energy or nutrients, but forage should always be the foundation of a horse’s diet
2. Two big hard feeds a day is best.
Myth: Feeding twice daily with large feeds is ideal for most horses.
Truth: A horse’s stomach is small and constantly produces acid. Feeding large, infrequent meals of hard feed can overwhelm the digestive system, increasing the risk of colic and ulcers. Instead, feed small amounts often and make sure forage is available throughout the day.
3. A weekly bran mash 'cleanses' the system.
Myth: Giving a warm bran mash once a week helps clear out the digestive system.
Truth: There’s no scientific basis for this. In fact, suddenly changing a horse’s feed, even just once a week, can disrupt the hindgut microbes and lead to digestive upset. Wheat bran also has a poor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which can contribute to long-term imbalances if fed regularly. If you want to feed a mash, opt for soaked fibre-based products that are designed for consistent use.
4. Horses shouldn't be fed or given water around exercise
Myth: Never feed or water a horse just before or after work as it causes colic.
Truth: Horses should have access to water before and after exercise to stay hydrated. Small amounts of forage pre-exercise can help buffer stomach acid. The only caution is avoiding large hard feeds within about an hour before intense work. Post-exercise, letting a horse cool down slightly before offering food and water is sensible, but they should not be left dehydrated.
5. Alfalfa (lucerne) makes horses fizzy
Myth: Feeding alfalfa makes horses hot or excitable.
Truth: Alfalfa is rich in protein and calcium, but it’s not high in sugar or starch, the usual culprits behind excitable behaviour. When fed as part of a balanced ration and in the correct quantities, alfalfa can be incredibly beneficial, especially for supporting muscle tone and gut health. Any ‘fizz’ is more likely to be caused by excess calories or cereal-based feeds, not alfalfa.
6. Feed balancers cause weight gain
Myth: Feed balancers are high in calories and make horses fat.
Truth: Balancers are low-calorie, concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals and quality protein. They’re designed to top up nutrients in forage-only diets without adding significant energy. Most are fed in small quantities – typically 100–500 g per day, and are actually ideal for good doers, native types or horses in light work.
7. Every horse needs a supplement
Myth: You need to feed a supplement no matter what else your horse is eating.
Truth: If your horse is on a complete feed at recommended levels, or receiving a balancer, they likely don’t need any additional supplementation. Over-supplementing can be wasteful. Supplements should only be added when there’s a proven need, ideally based on forage analysis or vet/nutritionist guidance
8. Haylage it too rich for most horses
Myth: Haylage causes weight gain or digestive issues… hay is safer.
Truth: Not all haylage is overly rich. Its nutritional content varies depending on how and when it was cut, and some haylage is lower in energy than many late-cut hays. With proper analysis and portion control, haylage can suit most horses, including those prone to laminitis, especially when soaked or rationed
9. Good hay is all a horse needs, no hard feed reuired
Myth: If you’ve got top-quality hay, there’s no need for hard feed.
Truth: While good hay provides fibre and energy, it can still be low in essential micronutrients like copper, selenium and vitamin E. Unless the forage is analysed and proven to be fully balanced, most horses benefit from a balancer or appropriate hard feed to fill in the nutritional gaps, especially if they’re in work or have increased demands
10. You must soak all dry feeds to avoid choke
Myth: Dry feeds like sugar beet pulp or chaff must always be soaked to prevent choking.
Truth: Soaking is sensible for some horses, particularly those that bolt their feed or have dental issues but not all dry feeds ned to be soaked when fed properly. Always follow manufacturer instructions. If your horse eats calmly and has access to water, soaked feed isn’t always essential, though it can help with hydration and palatability
Final Thoughts
Feeding horses doesn’t have to be complicated but it does need to be based on science and the horse’s natural biology, not old-fashioned stable yard myths. A diet built around quality forage, tailored supplements where needed and proper feeding routines will keep your horse healthier, happier and performing at their best.
