The Importance of Grazing

Grazing is vital to a horse’s physical and mental well-being
There are several key benefits to grazing for horses.

•Digestive Health-
Horses are continuous foragers. Meaning they need to be chewing 24/7. Horses also

do not have a gallbladder. Their stomachs produce acid constantly; grazing ensures a
constant flow of saliva to buffer the acid. In turn, preventing stomach ulcers! This is
also why a small hay meal bridge grain is a great idea to buffer the stomach! (That is if
they get grain in their diets!)

•Behavior and Mental Health-
Foraging prevents boredom and anxiety. Cribbing & weaving are typical behaviors of horses that may not graze enough- or with enough friends. Consider a track system or combining grass turnout with hay!

•Dental Health-
Fun Fact! Horses' teeth never stop growing (hence why they need a dental check at least yearly!). The grinding motion helps maintain the teeth and blood flow to the gums! 

24/7 grazing may not be for every horse- when it comes to grass or unlimited hay. Make sure you know your horse’s history or medical & dietary needs. They may be metabolic or overweight and you may need to customize their daily nutrition. Horses
may need limited grass turnout, a grazing muzzle or hay inside of nets; but even if you
prolong the amount of food they eat to cut back on extra calories, remember they are
still grazing regardless!

Remember, constant chewing is GOOD!! Whether your horse is grazing on hay or
grass, it is vital for their bodies in many ways. And as always, be mindful of the area
that you are in. Your grass and/or hay may not meet the daily nutrient requirements for your horse. If necessary, you can get a hay sample analysis or speak with an equine nutritionist to get the most out of your horse’s feed program!

-Gina Ansaldo

Use her code GINA20 at checkout for 20% off your Blue Hoof order and follow her on instagram @happily_ever_acres and @ginamarieequestrian