The question seems simple, but behind it lies an idea that changes how you feed a horse: its digestive system is built to receive forage in small amounts over many hours a day, not as two big meals. Hay isn't an extra; it's the base.
The two percent rule
As a general reference, a horse needs, every day, an amount of forage in dry matter equivalent to between 1.5% and 2.5% of its body weight. For a 500 kg horse, that's roughly 10 kg of hay a day as a rough figure. It's a starting reference: actual weight, age, activity level, whether it has pasture available and its body condition adjust that figure up or down.
Why continuous access matters
A horse's stomach secretes acid constantly, and its gut works best with a steady flow of fiber. Long spells without food favor ulcers and raise the risk of colic, one of the most serious problems in horses. That's why, rather than giving a lot of hay all at once, it's better for it to have forage available for most of the day.
How to split up the ration
Splitting the hay into several servings, or using systems that slow down intake such as small-mesh hay nets, helps mimic natural grazing and keeps the fiber from running out in no time. A horse left many hours with nothing to chew tends to get bored and develop unwanted behaviors, on top of the digestive risk.
When to adjust
A horse in intense work, a pregnant mare or an older animal have different needs, as does a horse prone to excess weight or with metabolic problems, where the ration needs to be controlled. Any fine-tuning, and especially for animals with health issues, is best done with a vet or an equine nutrition specialist.
Piriheno horse hay
We produce high-mountain meadow hay in small-bale format, with delivery arranged to your stable. It's the very same mountain meadow hay our own horses eat.
