How much hay does a horse eat per day?

A 1100 lb horse at 2% body weight eats about 22 lb of hay per day.

How many acres does a horse need?

1–2 acres per horse of well-managed pasture. More if the land is marginal or if you plan year-round turnout.

How much water does a horse drink daily?

About 10 gal per day on average, more in heat or hard work. Always provide free access to clean water.

Horse Keeping Basics: Feed, Hay & Pasture Requirements

Quick facts

Daily feed: A 1100 lb horse eats hay at 2% body weight — about 22 lb per day.
Water: Horses drink about 10 gal per day at rest, up to 15–20 gal in hot weather or heavy work.

Try the Pasture stocking rate calculator for detailed estimates.

Keeping a horse at home requires significant daily commitment but rewards the owner with a working partner or riding companion. Proper feeding and pasture management are the foundation of equine health.

Feed needs

A 1100 lb horse eats hay at 2% body weight — about 22 lb per day. Hard-working horses may need up to 2.5% body weight plus grain concentrate.

Space requirements

A horse needs a 12×12 ft stall (144 sq ft) minimum plus turnout. Plan 1–2 acres per horse for adequate pasture with rotation.

Water needs

Horses drink about 10 gal per day at rest, up to 15–20 gal in hot weather or heavy work. Automatic waterers or large troughs are essential.

Tips for success

Feed hay before grain so the horse has forage in the gut before concentrate hits the hindgut.
Provide free-choice salt blocks and loose minerals appropriate for your region.
Pick hooves daily and schedule farrier visits every 6–8 weeks whether shod or barefoot.

Common mistakes

Feeding rich alfalfa or high-grain diets to easy-keeper breeds, risking laminitis and colic.
Turning a stalled horse out on lush spring pasture without a gradual transition period.

Estimates only — consult your local extension office for advice specific to your land and animals.

Frequently asked questions

How much hay does a horse eat per day?: A 1100 lb horse at 2% body weight eats about 22 lb of hay per day.
How many acres does a horse need?: 1–2 acres per horse of well-managed pasture. More if the land is marginal or if you plan year-round turnout.
How much water does a horse drink daily?: About 10 gal per day on average, more in heat or hard work. Always provide free access to clean water.