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Strategies for Feeding Horses in a Group
As herd animals , horses are happiest and often healthiest when they are outside with other horses . However , issues can arise when it comes to feeding horses while they are turned out in a group . There are some strategies that can be tried in the quest for peaceful group feeding . Of course , it may still be necessary to separate some horses at feed time to ensure that everyone receives the feed and supplements they require .
1 . If you are dealing with large numbers of horses and multiple turnout areas , you may be able to group horses according to personality or nutritional needs to reduce conflict . Observe and evaluate the horses ’ behavior during feeding time from start to finish to see how fast each horse eats and where they fall in the pecking order . Bullies may still need to be separated from the herd .
2 . Keep your feeding routine the same so horses know what to expect . Feed at the same time every day so the horses know when to come up to the feeding area and are all present at the same time . Once you understand the group hierarchy , feed each horse in the same order every time .
Strategies for peaceful group feeding
3 . If possible , place feeders far apart and away from a fence line . Fence lines and gates create barriers for horses if they are being chased by another herd member . Use feeders that have wide bases as they are harder to tip over .
4 . When feeding hay on the ground , create more hay piles than there are horses and space the piles several feet apart . If you are feeding round bales , you may need to place more than one in the turnout area . Using round bale feeders will allow individuals to pick a side away from their more dominate pasture mates .
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