Hay Calculator for Horses

The Hay for Horses Calculator estimates daily hay requirement based on horse weight, type, activity level, and lifestyle factors. This tool helps horse owners and stable managers ensure proper nutrition and maintain gut health. Whether you are adjusting rations for a growing foal, managing a senior horse, or calculating monthly feed costs, this tool provides accurate estimates.

Enter your horse's weight in pounds (lbs)
1 (Minimal activity) to 5 (Heavy work/exercise)

How Daily Hay Requirement Is Calculated

The Daily Hay Requirement represents the specific weight of forage needed daily to maintain a horse's energy levels and digestive function. We calculate this by applying a percentage of the horse's total body weight.

  1. First, we determine the base intake percentage based on life stage and activity level, which ranges from 1.5% to 3.0%.
  2. Next, this percentage is applied to the horse's actual weight to find the base daily pounds required.
  3. Finally, we adjust this number based on body condition and pasture access to ensure the final recommendation is precise.

What Your Daily Hay Requirement Means

This number tells you exactly how many pounds of forage your horse needs daily to maintain gut health and energy.

Maintenance Intake: For an idle adult horse, aim for 1.5% to 2.0% of their body weight in hay. This amount provides necessary fiber for digestion without adding excess calories that lead to weight gain.

High Performance or Growth: Growing foals, lactating mares, or horses in heavy work require between 2.5% to 3.0% of their body weight. This higher intake supports rapid development and replaces energy burned during intense exercise.

Weight Management: If your horse is overweight, reduce the intake toward the lower end of the range. Conversely, if the horse is underweight, increase the hay amount gradually to restore condition safely.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary or equine nutritionist advice. Always consult a professional before making significant changes to your horse's diet.

Monitor your horse's body condition score regularly and adjust the hay amount up or down as needed to maintain their ideal weight.