Food is most important for horses.

Last time, we covered the signs indicating your horse may need a food change. Today, I follow that up by diving into five signs that your horse loves its current diet, which is critical, especially for easy keepers and metabolic horses.

Food Motivates Horses

Horses are highly motivated by food and need to eat constantly, so food restrictions can negatively impact their quality of life. When they cannot eat, they tend to fixate on food, leading to stress-related issues like delayed healing and a weakened immune system.

Introducing a New Feeding Program

When starting new feeding programs, it may take time for horses to adjust, especially if they are picky eaters. Owners often worry that their horses will refuse to eat the new food, but over time, with careful adjustments, most horses begin to enjoy their meals.

Behavioral Changes at Feed Time

One of the first signs that horses are enjoying their food is a change in how they interact with their owner. When horses become more engaged and attentive at feeding time, displaying excitement and curiosity, it is a sure sign that they are enjoying the food and starting to feel better physically.

Stomping in Satisfaction

Another sign indicating horses love their food is stomping their feet during feeding. That is an expression of satisfaction, similar to when someone taps their foot while enjoying a meal.

Closing Their Eyes While Eating

Some horses show their enjoyment by closing their eyes while eating, fully immersing themselves in the experience. That shows they are relaxed, content with their food, and savoring every bite.

Licking the Bowl Clean

Horses that love their food often lick the bowl clean. While some horses may leave food behind when not fully satisfied, a horse that finishes everything shows it has enjoyed its meal.

Improved Physical Health

A sign of a successful feeding program is improved physical health. When horses start improving physically, they show enhanced mobility, reduced inflammation, and overall better health, and that often coincides with them beginning to enjoy their new diet.

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