ABSTRACT
Most information about horse feeding is passed by word of mouth or by advertising a product. Many recommendations conflict, and few will stand the test of a chemical analysis. Horse owners can be reasonably sure of correct feeding by a routine chemical analysis of feeds consumed by their horses. Feed analysis is a routine practice of every horse nutrition consultant, because he is legally liable for his recommendations and must have evidence to support his recommendations. Chemical analysis is a method of checking the accuracy of ration formulation and comparing amounts and ratios of one nutrient to another. Analysis helps to: identify inadequate rations before damage occurs, identify quality feeds, and stimulate better skills and understanding of feed formulation. The horse feeder who selects commercial feed from a reputable company and feeds it according to directions with appropriate legume hay or non-legume but excellent quality hay, has minimum need for chemical analysis.
