Best Natural and Healthy Leafy Horse Treats

Horses are herbivores, and their diet should consist of mostly forage, such as hay and grass. However, they can also benefit from eating leafy feeds, such as alfalfa hay, clover hay, dandelion greens, etc. Leafy feeds are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are all essential for horses’ health. Make sure to consider these feeds, treats for your horse.

Alfalfa hay

Alfalfa hay is a type of legume hay that is high in protein, calcium, and vitamins A and K. It is also a good source of fiber. Alfalfa hay is a popular choice for horses because it is a nutrient-rich feed that can help to keep horses healthy.

Pros

  • It is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamins A and K, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for horses’ health and well-being.
  • High fiber help horses to feel full and satisfied. This can help to prevent horses from becoming overweight or obese.
  • High fiber content in alfalfa hay can help to keep horses’ digestive systems healthy and help prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
  • The calcium content in alfalfa hay can help to promote healthy hooves which is important for horses that are active or that are prone to hoof problems.

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Cons

  • High sugar content can be a problem for horses that are prone to weight gain or insulin resistance.
  • High fiber can cause digestive upset in some horses. So, it’s important to introduce alfalfa hay slowly to horses.
  • Alfalfa hay is a more expensive type of hay than other types, such as grass hay.

Overall, alfalfa hay is a nutritious feed that can be beneficial for horses. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to feed them in moderation. It is also important to talk to your veterinarian before feeding alfalfa hay to your horse, especially if your horse has any health conditions.

Is Alfalfa hay Economic?

When it comes to feeding horses depending on a number of factors, including the cost in your area, the amount of alfalfa hay your horse needs to eat each day, the quality of the alfalfa hay, and the availability of alternative feeds Alfalfa hay fall non-economical. In general, alfalfa hay is more expensive than grass hay. However, alfalfa hay is also higher in nutrients, so horses may need to eat less of it each day.

The alfalfa seeding rate is typically 12-15 pounds per acre, or 5.4-6.8 kilograms per hectare. However, the exact seeding rate will vary depending on the soil type, climate, and desired yield.

Here is a table of alfalfa seeding rates for different soil types:

Soil Type Seeding Rate (lbs/acre) Seeding Rate (kg/ha)
Sandy 15-20 6.8-9.1
Loamy 12-15 5.4-6.8
Clay 10-12 4.5-5.4

The climate can also affect the alfalfa seeding rate. In hot climates, a lower seeding rate may be necessary to prevent the crop from becoming stressed. In cold climates, a higher seeding rate may be necessary to ensure that the crop establishes well.

The desired yield is also an important factor to consider when determining the alfalfa seeding rate. The higher the desired yield, the higher the seeding rate will need to be.

For example, if you want to achieve a yield of 2 tons per acre, you would need to seed at a rate of 15 pounds per acre. However, if you only want to achieve a yield of 1 ton per acre, you could seed at a rate of 12 pounds per acre.

The amount of alfalfa hay your horse needs to eat each day will depend on their size, activity level, and health. A horse that is pregnant or nursing will need to eat more alfalfa hay than a horse that is not. The quality of the alfalfa hay is also important. High-quality alfalfa hay will be green and leafy, with few weeds or mold. Low-quality alfalfa hay may be brown or dry, and it may contain weeds or mold.

The availability of alternative feeds is also a factor to consider. If there are other affordable and nutritious feeds available, then alfalfa hay may not be the best option.

Bermuda grass

Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that is native to tropical and subtropical regions. A highly adaptable grass that can grow in a variety of conditions, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils. Bermuda grass is also drought-tolerant and can withstand high temperatures.

Bermuda grass is a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. It is also a good source of energy for horses. Bermuda grass hay is a good choice for horses that are active or that need to lose weight.

Pros

  • High in fiber and vitamins A and C
  • Good source of energy
  • Drought-tolerant and can withstand high temperatures
  • Adaptable to a variety of conditions

Cons

  • Can be high in sugar and calories
  • Can cause digestive upset in some horses
  • Not a good choice for horses with allergies

Overall, Bermuda grass can be good hay for horses, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to feed it in moderation.

Clover hay

Clover hay is a type of legume hay that is high in protein, calcium, and vitamins A and K. It is also a good source of fiber. Clover hay is a popular choice for horses because it is a nutrient-rich feed that can help to keep horses healthy. Clover hay is a high-fiber feed that can help horses to feel full and satisfied. This can help to prevent horses from becoming overweight or obese. The high fiber content in clover hay can also help to keep horses’ digestive systems healthy. This can help to prevent constipation and other digestive problems. The calcium content in clover hay can help to promote healthy hooves. This is important for horses that are active or that are prone to hoof problems.

Comparison Between Alfalfa and Clover Hay

Nutrient Alfalfa Hay Clover Hay
Protein 14-20% 12-18%
Calcium 0.2-0.5% 0.3-0.6%
Vitamin A 7000-12000 IU/kg 2000-4000 IU/kg
Vitamin K 100-200 mcg/kg 50-100 mcg/kg
Fiber 18-25% 15-20%

Alfalfa hay is higher in protein, calcium, and vitamin A than clover hay. However, clover hay is higher in vitamin K. Overall, both alfalfa hay and clover hay are good choices for horses. The best choice for your horse will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

Mesquite hay

Mesquite hay is a type of legume hay that is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins A and E. It is also a good source of minerals, such as calcium and iron. Mesquite hay is a popular choice for horses because it is a nutrient-rich feed that can help to keep horses healthy. This high-fiber feed helps horses to feel full and satisfied and prevent horses from becoming overweight or obese. The high fiber content in mesquite hay also helps keep their digestive systems healthy and prevents constipation and other digestive problems. The calcium content in mesquite hay can help to promote healthy hooves

Comparison Between Mesquite and Alfalfa

Nutrient Mesquite Hay Alfalfa Hay
Protein 15-20% 14-20%
Calcium 0.6-1.0% 0.2-0.5%
Vitamin A 10000-15000 IU/kg 7000-12000 IU/kg
Vitamin E 200-400 IU/kg 100-200 IU/kg
Fiber 20-25% 18-25%

As you can see, mesquite hay is higher in protein, calcium, and vitamin A than alfalfa hay. However, alfalfa hay is higher in vitamin E. Overall, both mesquite hay and alfalfa hay are good choices for horses. The best choice for your horse will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

One thing to keep in mind is that mesquite hay can be high in sugar. This is not a problem for most horses, but it is something to be aware of if your horse is prone to weight gain or insulin resistance.

Orchard grass

Orchard grass is a cool-season grass that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a popular choice for hay because it is a high-quality forage that is high in fiber and energy. Orchard grass is also a good source of vitamins A and E. Orchard grass hay is a high-fiber feed that can help horses to feel full and satisfied, prevent them from becoming overweight or obese, and help to prevent constipation and other digestive problems. The calcium content in orchard grass hay helps healthy hooves and reduces hoof problems.

Orchard grass hay is a good choice for horses of all ages and activity levels. It is also a good choice for horses that are prone to weight gain or insulin resistance.

Ryegrass

Like Orchard, Ryegrass is a cool-season grass that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a popular choice for hay because it is a high-quality forage that is high in fiber and energy. Ryegrass is also a good source of vitamins A and E. This high-fiber feed helps horses to feel full and satisfied, prevent them from becoming overweight or obese, prevents constipation and other digestive problems, and the calcium content help maintain healthy hooves.

However, it is important to note that ryegrass hay can be high in fructans, which can be a problem for horses that are prone to laminitis.

Tips while feeding Ryegrass to horses

  • Introduce ryegrass hay gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Feed ryegrass hay in moderation. Too much ryegrass hay can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
  • Choose ryegrass hay that is free of mold and dust. Moldy or dusty hay can be harmful to horses.
  • Store ryegrass hay in a cool, dry place.

Comparison between Ryegrass hay and Alfalfa hay

Nutrient Ryegrass Hay Alfalfa Hay
Protein 12-16% 14-20%
Calcium 0.4-0.6% 0.2-0.5%
Vitamin A 5000-10000 IU/kg 7000-12000 IU/kg
Vitamin E 100-200 IU/kg 100-200 IU/kg
Fiber 18-22% 18-25%

As you can see, ryegrass hay is lower in protein and calcium than alfalfa hay. However, ryegrass hay is higher in vitamin E. Overall, both ryegrass hay and alfalfa hay are good choices for horses. The best choice for your horse will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

Timothy hay

Timothy hay is a cool-season grass that is native to North America. It is a popular choice for hay because it is a high-quality forage that is high in fiber and energy. Timothy hay is also a good source of vitamins A and E. High-fiber feed prevents horses from becoming overweight and prevents constipation and other digestive problems. The calcium content in timothy hay can help to promote healthy hooves. This is important for horses that are active or that are prone to hoof problems.

Timothy hay is a good choice for horses of all ages and activity levels. It is also a good choice for horses that are prone to weight gain or insulin resistance.

However, it is important to note that Timothy hay can be low in protein. If your horse is an active horse or a growing horse, you may need to supplement their diet with a protein supplement.

Tips for feeding Timothy hay to horses

  • Introduce timothy hay gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Feed timothy hay in moderation. Too much timothy hay can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
  • Choose Timothy hay that is free of mold and dust. Moldy or dusty hay can be harmful to horses.
  • Store timothy hay in a cool, dry place.

These tips will help your horse in getting the benefits of timothy hay without any risks.

Comparison between timothy hay and alfalfa hay

Nutrient Timothy Hay Alfalfa Hay
Protein 10-14% 14-20%
Calcium 0.3-0.5% 0.2-0.5%
Vitamin A 5000-10000 IU/kg 7000-12000 IU/kg
Vitamin E 100-200 IU/kg 100-200 IU/kg
Fiber 18-22% 18-25%

As you can see, timothy hay is lower in protein and calcium than alfalfa hay. However, timothy hay is higher in vitamin E. Overall, both timothy hay and alfalfa hay are good choices for horses. The best choice for your horse will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

Oat hay

Oat hay is a type of hay that is made from oats. It is a good source of fiber and energy, and it is also a good source of vitamins A and E. Oat hay is a good choice for horses of all ages and activity levels.

Pros

  • Oat hay is a good source of fiber, energy, vitamins A and E, and other nutrients that are essential for horses’ health and well-being.
  • Helps to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Supports a healthy digestive system.
  • The Calcium contents keep the hooves healthy.

Cons

  • Oat hay can be high in sugar, which can be a problem for horses that are prone to weight gain or insulin resistance.
  • Overfeed can cause digestive upset in some horses. It is important to introduce oat hay gradually to horses to avoid this.
  • Not a good choice for horses with allergies.

Insights

Oat hay is a good choice for horses of all ages and activity levels. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as the high sugar content and the potential for digestive upset. If your horse is prone to weight gain or insulin resistance, you may want to choose a different type of hay. If your horse has allergies, you should also avoid oat hay.

Lucerne hay

Lucerne hay is a type of legume hay that is high in protein, calcium, and vitamins A and K. It is also a good source of fiber. Lucerne hay is a popular choice for horses because it is a nutrient-rich feed that can help to keep horses healthy.

Benefits of feeding Lucerne hay to horses

  • Lucerne hay is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamins A and K, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for horses’ health and well-being.
  • Lucerne hay is a high-fiber feed that can help horses to feel full and satisfied, supports a healthy digestive system

Although the calcium content in lucerne hay can help to promote healthy hooves it is important to note that lucerne hay is high in protein and calcium. This can be a problem for horses that are prone to kidney problems or urinary tract stones. Additionally, lucerne hay can be high in oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption.

Tips for feeding Lucerne hay to horses

These tips can help ensure your horse gets the benefits of lucerne hay without any risks:

  • Introduce lucerne hay gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Feed lucerne hay in moderation. Too much lucerne hay can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
  • Choose lucerne hay that is free of mold and dust. Moldy or dusty hay can be harmful to horses.
  • Store lucerne hay in a cool, dry place.

Comparison between Lucerne hay and Timothy hay

Nutrient Lucerne Hay Timothy Hay
Protein 16-20% 10-14%
Calcium 0.2-0.5% 0.3-0.5%
Vitamin A 7000-12000 IU/kg 5000-10000 IU/kg
Vitamin K 100-200 mcg/kg 100-200 mcg/kg
Fiber 18-25% 18-22%
As you can see, lucerne hay is higher in protein, calcium, and vitamin K than timothy hay. However, timothy hay is higher in vitamin A. Overall, both lucerne hay and timothy hay are good choices for horses. The best choice for your horse will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a type of grass that is high in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. It is also a good source of fiber and chlorophyll.

Pros

  • Wheatgrass is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are essential for horses’ mental and physical health.
  • Wheatgrass is a low-calorie food that can help horses to prevent horses from becoming overweight or obese.
  • High fiber,  helps horses’ digestive systems healthy as well as helps to prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
  • It is a good source of minerals, such as magnesium and potassium, which are important for healthy hooves.
  • Wheatgrass is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to boost the horse’s immune system and protect against diseases.

Cons

  • Can be high in oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption. This can be a problem for horses that are prone to kidney stones or urinary tract problems.
  • Can cause digestive upset, and too much wheatgrass can cause digestive upset in some horses. It is important to introduce wheatgrass gradually to horses to avoid this.
  • Wheatgrass is not a complete diet, so it should not be fed to horses as their only source of food, it should be fed as a supplement to a balanced diet of hay, grain, and forage.

Insight

Wheatgrass can be a healthy and nutritious addition to a horse’s diet. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as the high oxalate content and the possibility of digestive upset. Always talk to your veterinarian before feeding wheatgrass to your horse, especially if your horse has any health conditions.

Tips for feeding Wheatgrass to horses

To get the full benefits of wheatgrass without any risks, try to consider these experts’ tips.

  • Introduce gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Feed in moderation.
  • Try choosing fresh and free-of-mold wheatgrass. Moldy or dusty wheatgrass can be harmful to horses.
  • Store Wheatgrass in a cool, dry place.

Kale

Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is high in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. It is also a good source of fiber.

Pros

  • Kale is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are essential for horses’ well-being.
  • Kale is a low-calorie food that can help horses to prevent horses from becoming overweight.
  • Kale is high in fiber, which can help to keep horses’ digestive systems healthy.
  • Kale is a good source of minerals, such as magnesium and potassium, which are important for healthy hooves.
  • Kale is a good source of antioxidants, which can help to boost the horse’s immune system and protect against diseases.

Cons

  • It can be high in oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption. This can be a problem for horses that are prone to kidney stones or urinary tract problems.
  • Can cause digestive upset, too much kale can cause digestive upset in some horses.
  • Kale is not a complete diet and should not be fed to horses as their only source of food. It should be fed as a supplement to a balanced diet of hay, grain, and forage.

Insight

Kale can be a healthy and nutritious addition to a horse’s diet. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as the high oxalate content and the possibility of digestive upset. It is also important to talk to your veterinarian before feeding kale to your horse, especially if your horse has any health conditions.

Tips for feeding Kale to horses

  • Introduce kale gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Feed kale in moderation. Too much kale can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
  • Choose kale that is fresh and free of mold. Moldy or dusty kale can be harmful to horses.
  • Store kale in a cool, dry place.

Collards

Collard greens are a type of leafy green vegetable that is high in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. They are also a good source of fiber.

Pros

  • Collard greens are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Collard greens are a low-calorie food that can help horses to feel full and satisfied.
  • High fibers can help to keep horses’ digestive systems healthy.
  • Minerals, such as calcium and magnesium helps maintains healthy hooves.
  • Antioxidants can help to boost the horse’s immune system and protect against diseases.

Cons

  • Oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption can be a problem for horses that are prone to kidney stones or urinary tract problems.
  • High-fiber food, and too much collard greens can cause digestive upset in some horses.
  • Like all other hay type Collard greens is also not a complete diet. It should be fed as a supplement to a balanced diet of hay, grain, and forage.

Insight

Collard greens can be a healthy and nutritious addition to a horse’s diet. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as the high oxalate content and the possibility of digestive upset. It is also important to talk to your veterinarian before feeding collard greens to your horse, especially if your horse has any health conditions.

Tips for feeding Collard greens to horses

  • Introduce collard greens gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Feed collard greens in moderation.
  • Feed fresh and free of mold.
  • Store in a cool and dry place.

Turnip greens

Turnip greens are a type of leafy green vegetable that is high in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. They are also a good source of fiber.

Pros

  • Turnip greens are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Turnip greens are a low-calorie food that can help horses from becoming overweight.
  • High fiber help reduce digestive problems.
  • Minerals like calcium and magnesium are good for healthy hooves.
  • Antioxidants help to boost the horse’s immune system and protect against diseases.

Cons

  • High oxalates can bind to calcium and can be a problem for horses that are prone to kidney stones or urinary tract problems.
  • Too many turnip greens can cause digestive upset in some horses.
  • It should be fed as a supplement to a balanced diet of hay, grain, and forage.

Insight

Turnip greens can be a healthy and nutritious addition to a horse’s diet. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as the high oxalate content and the possibility of digestive upset. It is also important to talk to your veterinarian before feeding turnip greens to your horse, especially if your horse has any health conditions.

Tips for feeding Turnip greens to horses

  • Introduce turnip greens gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Too much turnip greens can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
  • Moldy or dusty turnip greens can be harmful to horses. Always choose fresh and free of mold.
  • Store turnip greens in a cool, dry place.

Dandelion greens

Dandelion greens are a type of leafy green vegetable that is high in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium, iron, and calcium. They are also a good source of fiber.

Pros

  • Dandelion greens are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Low-calorie helps maintain a healthy weight.
  • Supports a healthy digestive system.
  • Dandelion greens are a good source of liver-supporting nutrients, such as vitamin C and potassium.
  • Dandelion greens are a good source of antioxidants, which can help to boost the horse’s immune system and protect against diseases.

Cons

  • Dandelion greens can be high in oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption. This can be a problem for horses that are prone to kidney stones or urinary tract problems.
  • Dandelion greens are a high-fiber food, and too much dandelion greens can cause digestive upset in some horses.
  • It’s not a complete diet.

Insight

Dandelion greens can be a healthy and nutritious addition to a horse’s diet. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as the high oxalate content and the possibility of digestive upset. It is also important to talk to your veterinarian before feeding dandelion greens to your horse, especially if your horse has any health conditions.

Tips for feeding Dandelion greens to horses

Following these tips can help to ensure that your horse is getting the benefits of dandelion greens without any risks.

  • Introduce dandelion greens gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Too much dandelion greens can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
  • Choose fresh dandelion greens. Moldy or dusty dandelion greens can be harmful to horses.
  • Store dandelion greens in a cool, dry place.

Radish greens

Radish greens are the leafy green tops of radishes. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium, iron, and calcium. They are also a good source of fiber.

Pros

  • Provides essential nutrients as radish greens are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Helps to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Radish greens are high in fiber, which can help to keep horses’ digestive systems healthy and can help to prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
  • Calcium and magnesium in it are important for healthy hooves.

Cons

  • High oxalates can bind to calcium and can cause a problem for horses that are prone to kidney stones or urinary tract problems.
  • High fiber can also cause digestive upset.
  • It’s not a complete diet.

Insight

Radish greens can be a healthy and nutritious addition to a horse’s diet. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, such as the high oxalate content and the possibility of digestive upset. It is also important to talk to your veterinarian before feeding radish greens to your horse, especially if your horse has any health conditions.

Here are some tips for feeding Radish greens to horses

  • Introduce gradually to avoid digestive upset.
  • Feed in moderation.
  • Always choose fresh and free of mold.
  • Store in a cool and dry place.

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