One of the biggest expenses to horse ownership is feeding them. Hay, grain, and supplements can quickly deplete your bank account, but it’s not like you can skip feeding your horse. The good news is there are ways to cut costs and keep your horse healthy.

1. Buy in bulk: Try to buy your hay and grain in larger quantities. The more you buy, the bigger the discount usually. Be careful of buying too much though! Hay and grain can mold.

2. Purchase hay before winter: Don’t wait to the dead of winter to buy your horse’s hay. You’ll be paying a premium. The summer and early fall are when prices will be the best!

3. Choose high-quality hay: It may cost more upfront, but you won’t have to feed as much.

4. Pick it up yourself: Skip the delivery fees by picking up your own hay and grain. Some hay farmers offer discounts if you pick up the bales directly from the field.

5. Less grain, more hay: The bulk of your horse’s diet should be in the form of forages. It’s actually cheaper to feed hay, rather than concentrates. With the right high-quality forage, your horse may not even need grain or supplements.

6. Ask a nutritionist: Make sure you are feeding the right amount and type of grain. You don’t want to be overfeeding your horse.

7. Measure your feed: Each feed company offers their recommendations on the amount your horse is supposed to get based on their weight. You can save money by following this guide and not overfeeding.

8. Add a ration balancer: These are great for meeting the nutritional needs of a horse that’s on a forage-only diet.

9. Turn out onto pasture: Utilize grass when it’s available in the spring and summer. You can cut hay costs!

10. Use slow feeders: When feeding hay, you can prevent wastage and slow down your quick eater with a slow feeder net.

Feeding your horse on a budget is doable with these tips!

Find more ideas here: ‘20 Money Saving Tips For Horse Owners‘.