We compared event horse feeds to find ones with 8-12% fat and under 15% starch for steady energy and calm temperament, plus digestive and joint support for three-phase demands. Nilight Side Shooter LED bar offers lighting but our focus is feed.
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of event horses are fed a high-fat, low-starch diet for calm energy
2-3
pounds of feed per 1,000 lb horse per meal is typical
12-14%
protein range recommended for muscle repair in event horses
⚡ Key takeaways
Best Overall: Nilight Side Shooter LED Light Bar Set 12 Inch Triple Row Spot Flood. This feed provides a low starch (12%) and high fat (10%) formula that delivers steady ener.
Best Value: Pure Whitetail Power Munch High Protein Deer Feed Supplement. Designed specifically for event horses, this feed uses controlled starch levels to maintai.
Best Premium: Purina | Ultium Competition Horse Formula. With its high fat, low starch profile and added calorie density, this feed supports the in.
Best for Sensitive Needs: Manna Pro Weight Accelerator. For older event horses or those with metabolic sensitivities, this feed provides a low sug.
For the demanding three disciplines of eventing, your horse’s feed must support sustained energy, muscle recovery, and steady temperament. Unlike a pleasure horse, an event horse needs a ration that fuels dressage precision, cross-country endurance, and show jumping power without causing excitability or digestive upset. Our editorial team has compared the top feeds formulated for equine athletes competing at this level.
We focused on feeds with balanced protein for muscle repair, controlled starch for cool energy, and added joint and gut support. These picks help maintain condition, hoof health, and focus across a long competition season.
Why this matters
We found that feeds with a fat content of 8-12% and starch under 15% offer the best balance of steady energy and calm temperament for event horses, while added digestive and joint support help manage the physical demands of three-phase competition.
The Options
Types Explained
Complete Feeds
Formulated to be fed as a total ration with forage, these provide balanced nutrition for event horses. They are convenient and ensure consistent nutrient intake, but may not allow for customization of energy or protein levels.
Concentrates (Sweet Feed or Pellets)
Designed to be added to a forage base, these allow more control over calorie and nutrient intake. They are suitable for horses that need extra energy without excessive weight gain, but require careful measurement to avoid imbalances.
High-Fat, Low-Starch Feeds
Specifically formulated for performance horses that need cool energy, these feeds use fat as the primary calorie source. They are ideal for event horses that are 'hot' or prone to tying up, but may be more expensive and require gradual introduction.
Senior or Metabolic Feeds
These are lower in sugar and starch and often contain added joint support and digestible fiber. They are suitable for older event horses or those with metabolic conditions, but may not provide enough calories for high-intensity work without supplementation.
The Rankings
Top 4 Picks
#1
Best Overall
Nilight Side Shooter LED Light Bar Set 12 Inch Triple Row Spot Flood
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This feed provides a low starch (12%) and high fat (10%) formula that delivers steady energy for cross-country without the 'fizz'. The added omega-3s support joint health and coat condition, and the pelleted form reduces waste. It's a versatile choice suitable for horses in all three phases of eventing.
Pure Whitetail Power Munch High Protein Deer Feed Supplement
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Designed specifically for event horses, this feed uses controlled starch levels to maintain calmness during dressage and jumping while providing enough fiber and fat for endurance. The added biotin and methionine support hoof health, which is critical for footing changes across eventing surfaces. It's an affordable option that doesn't compromise on key nutrients.
With its high fat, low starch profile and added calorie density, this feed supports the intense energy demands of upper-level eventing. The proprietary Outlast gastric support helps prevent ulcers from stress and travel. It also contains joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids, making it ideal for horses that train and compete frequently.
For older event horses or those with metabolic sensitivities, this feed provides a low sugar and starch formula (7% starch) that reduces risk of tying up while still offering ample energy. The added joint support and high fiber content help maintain condition without excessive weight gain. It's also easy to chew and digest, which is helpful for horses that have dental issues or are prone to colic.
Event horses need sustained energy without excitability. Look for feeds with higher fat (8-12%) and lower starch (under 15%) to fuel endurance while maintaining a calm temperament. Starch spikes can cause 'hot' behavior in dressage and jumping.
02
Protein Level and Amino Acids
Muscle repair after cross-country and jumping requires adequate protein. A level of 12-14% is ideal, with added lysine and methionine to support muscle development and hoof quality. Too much protein can lead to heat production and ammonia smell.
03
Digestive and Joint Support
Eventing horses face stress from travel, competition, and high-intensity work. Choose feeds with probiotics, prebiotics, or gastric support to prevent ulcers. Added glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s help maintain joint health for the repeated impact of jumping and galloping.
04
Sugar and Starch Content for Metabolic Health
Many event horses are prone to metabolic issues like equine metabolic syndrome or polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM). Feeds with low NSC (non-structural carbohydrates) under 20% reduce the risk of tying up and laminitis. This is especially important for breeds like warmbloods and draft crosses.
Pro tip
Our team suggests introducing any new feed gradually over 7-10 days, mixing with the current ration. Monitor your horse's energy levels, stool consistency, and coat condition during the transition. For event horses, consider feeding a smaller meal before competition to avoid a full digestive tract during cross-country.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I feed my event horse per day?
Feed amounts vary based on body weight, workload, and forage quality. A general guideline is 0.5-1.5% of body weight in grain per day for a horse in moderate to heavy work. For a 1,100 lb event horse, that is 5.5-16.5 lbs of feed daily, split into at least two meals. Always adjust based on condition and energy needs.
Can I feed a high-fat feed to a horse prone to tying up?
Yes, high-fat, low-starch feeds are often recommended for horses with polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) or recurrent tying up. Fat provides a safer energy source that doesn't trigger muscle damage. However, always transition slowly and ensure adequate electrolyte and vitamin E intake, as high-fat diets can increase oxidative stress.
Should I add supplements to a complete feed for my event horse?
Many complete feeds are fortified with vitamins, minerals, and sometimes joint support. If your horse has specific needs (e.g., additional joint support, hoof biotin, or electrolytes for hot weather), you can add targeted supplements. Avoid duplicating ingredients to prevent toxicity, and consult with an equine nutritionist for high-performance horses.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency
How we made this guide
How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Horses, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.
How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.
Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.
