Fresh grass contains many important nutrients for horses, including a variety of vitamins. However, when grass is dried and stored, some of these vitamins gradually diminish. Vitamin E, which is essential for muscles, starts to break down fairly quickly after harvesting. If your horse does not eat fresh grass, you should supplement this vitamin. Vitamin A also disappears relatively fast. This is why many horse owners feed their horses carrots in winter, as they are rich in vitamin A. Additionally, dried hay contains significantly fewer amino acids and fatty acids than fresh grass.

Nutrient-Poor Soils

What is not in the soil cannot be absorbed by the plant—this applies to minerals as well. In the Netherlands, many soils are low in minerals. One reason for this is over-fertilization, which causes minerals to leach out and the soil to become acidic. This is particularly problematic in sandy soils. Does your hay come from sandy soil? Then it is likely to be low in minerals. However, even with other soil types, it is uncertain whether all essential minerals are present in sufficient quantities in your hay.

Nutrient-Poor Hay

If you really want to know what is in your hay, you can have it tested. This is a good idea if you have a large batch and control everything your horse eats. However, testing can be impractical if you have multiple small batches, limited storage, or if your horse is boarded at a livery stable. That’s why it’s helpful to know the general composition of Dutch hay. On average, Dutch hay contains relatively little copper, zinc, magnesium, and selenium. On the other hand, it is often high in iron and manganese.

Balancer or Pellets?

Pellets, muesli, and other horse feeds contain vitamins and minerals that can supplement hay. However, these feeds often also include ingredients that you may prefer to limit in your horse’s diet, such as grains, starch, and molasses. Always check the label carefully—many standard pellet feeds only provide the required daily amount of vitamins and minerals when you feed two to three kilograms per day. That’s why it is often much better to give a balancer alongside roughage. A balancer is a concentrated vitamin and mineral supplement, without unnecessary fillers, grains, and sugars. Good hay and a high-quality balancer provide an excellent nutritional foundation for most horses.

Individual Needs

On packaging for pellets and balancers, you will often find recommended daily intake amounts. Keep in mind that these are based on the standard requirements of a healthy horse that is not in work or only lightly exercised. If your horse works hard, sweats a lot, is pregnant, or experiences high levels of stress or illness, its need for vitamins and minerals increases. Always ensure your horse gets enough nutrients based on its specific situation.