More than many owners realize. A typical adult horse may drink 5–10 gallons daily, with needs increasing in heat, during work, or when eating dry hay. Water must be clean, accessible, and truly drinkable — not just present.

Quality forage is clean, appropriate for your horse’s needs, and nutritionally consistent — not simply the cheapest option available. Leafiness, cleanliness, sugar content, and suitability for the individual horse all matter.

Mineral balance starts with your forage, not a supplement label. Testing hay and evaluating it against established requirements allows adjustments based on workload, age, and metabolic health. What works for one horse may not work for another.

If you want nutrition decisions to be informed rather than guessed, yes. Hay makes up the majority of most equine diets. Testing clarifies sugar levels, protein, and mineral content — and prevents unnecessary or poorly targeted supplementation.

Most horses do. Forage is naturally low in sodium, and without intentional salt intake, hydration and electrolyte balance can suffer — especially in heat or during work. Before assuming bigger issues, confirm salt intake is consistent and adequate.