Quarter Horses have specific dietary requirements that center on their muscular build and energy needs, typically requiring a forage-based diet with careful grain supplementation. Our editorial team recommends consulting an equine nutritionist to tailor a feeding plan that matches your horse’s workload, age, and metabolic health.
These horses are prone to obesity and metabolic issues like equine metabolic syndrome, so diet management is crucial. A typical Quarter Horse diet consists of high-quality hay or pasture, with grain only added for horses in heavy work.
Forage as the Foundation of the Quarter Horse Diet
Quarter Horses thrive on a forage-first diet, with hay or pasture making up the majority of their intake. A mature Quarter Horse weighing around 1,100 to 1,300 pounds (500 to 590 kg) typically eats 1.5 to 2 percent of its body weight in forage daily, which is about 16 to 26 pounds (7 to 12 kg) of hay. Good quality grass hay, such as timothy or bermudagrass, is ideal, while alfalfa can be fed in moderation to avoid excess protein and calories.
Pasture grazing is beneficial but must be managed carefully due to the breed’s tendency to gain weight. Limit turnout on lush spring grass to prevent laminitis and obesity. For horses prone to metabolic issues, a slow feeder hay net can help extend eating time and reduce intake.
Grain and Concentrate Feeding for Quarter Horses
Grain or concentrates should only be fed to Quarter Horses with higher energy demands, such as those in regular riding, competition, or breeding. A typical working Quarter Horse may receive 4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kg) of a balanced feed per day, divided into two meals. For horses in light work, forage alone often suffices.
Choose a feed formulated for easy keepers to avoid excessive calories. Avoid high starch grains like corn or barley; instead, opt for fiber or fat-based energy sources like beet pulp or rice bran. Always introduce new feeds gradually over 7 to 10 days to prevent digestive upset.
Supplements and Water Requirements for Quarter Horses
Quarter Horses generally do not need many supplements if fed a balanced diet, but some may benefit from additional vitamin E or selenium depending on local forage quality. Salt should always be available, either loose or as a block. Electrolytes may be needed for horses that sweat heavily during work.
Fresh, clean water is critical; an adult Quarter Horse drinks 10 to 12 gallons (38 to 45 liters) per day, more in hot weather or after exercise. Automatic waterers or large buckets should be checked daily to ensure constant access.
Managing Weight and Metabolic Health in Quarter Horses
Quarter Horses are prone to obesity and metabolic disorders like equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) and laminitis. Body condition scoring (BCS) on a 1 to 9 scale is a useful tool; aim for a BCS of 5 to 6. Regularly assess your horse’s neck crest, ribs, and tailhead for fat deposition.
For overweight horses, reduce or eliminate grain, feed low sugar hay, and use a grazing muzzle on pasture. Exercise is essential; at least 20 minutes of work daily helps maintain a healthy weight. Work with a veterinarian to test for insulin resistance if you suspect metabolic issues.