A common misconception is that eventing horses eat a one-size-fits-all high grain diet. In reality, their nutrition is carefully tailored to the demands of dressage, cross country, and show jumping phases. Our editorial team explains what eventing horses actually eat to stay fit and perform at their best.
The diet of an eventing horse is built on high quality forage, with concentrates added based on individual workload, metabolism, and body condition. The goal is to provide steady energy, maintain muscle, and support recovery without causing digestive upset or excessive weight gain.
Forage: The Foundation of the Eventing Diet
Forage is the cornerstone of any eventing horse’s diet. Good quality hay or pasture provides the necessary fiber for gut health and a steady release of energy. During intense training and competition seasons, eventing horses often consume 1.5 to 2 percent of their body weight in forage daily.
Choices include grass hay, legume hay like alfalfa, or a mix. Alfalfa offers higher protein and calcium, beneficial for muscle function and bone density, but must be balanced to avoid excess. Many eventers prefer a blend to optimize energy without causing hyperactivity.
Concentrates and Grains for Energy
Eventing horses need additional calories from concentrates, especially during heavy work. Common options include oats, barley, corn, and formulated feeds. The type and amount depend on the horse’s workload, temperament, and metabolic rate.
High fat feeds, such as those with rice bran or vegetable oil, are popular for sustained energy without the spike from sugary grains. Fat adaptation is common in event horses to support endurance across cross country courses. Feeds with controlled starch levels help prevent colic and tying up.
Supplements for Performance and Recovery
Eventing horses often receive supplements to address specific needs. Electrolytes are crucial during hot weather and after intense efforts to replace losses from sweat. Vitamin E and selenium support muscle function and antioxidant defenses.
Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, or hyaluronic acid are common due to the high impact of jumping and galloping. Omega 3 fatty acids from flaxseed or fish oil can reduce inflammation and improve coat condition. Probiotics and yeast cultures aid digestion and nutrient absorption.
Hydration and Feeding Schedule
Constant access to clean water is nonnegotiable, especially during events. Eventing horses may drink less when stressed, so electrolytes in feed or water can encourage intake. Some owners offer warm water in cold weather to promote drinking.
Feeding schedules are consistent, with meals divided into at least three to four times daily to mimic natural grazing and reduce risk of colic. Hay is fed before grains to slow eating and buffer stomach acid. After competition, hay and water are offered first, with grain delayed until the horse has cooled down.
Adjusting Diet for Competition Days
On competition days, eventing horses receive a lighter, easily digestible meal a few hours before dressage. A small amount of hay and a low starch concentrate can provide energy without a full gut. Between phases, hay and water are available, with electrolytes added if needed.
After cross country, the focus is on rehydration and muscle recovery. A mash of beet pulp or soaked hay cubes with electrolytes is common. The evening meal returns to normal forage and concentrates, with extra fat or protein if required to repair tissues.