Horse Nutrition Calculator
Based on NRC (National Research Council) requirements
Daily Digestible Energy
0 Mcal/dayProtein Requirements
Crude Protein
0 g
Lysine
0 g
Macro Minerals
Calcium
0 g
Phosphorus
0 g
Magnesium
0 g
Potassium
0 g
Sodium
0 g
Chloride
0 g
Trace Minerals
Copper
0 mg
Zinc
0 mg
Manganese
0 mg
Iron
0 mg
Selenium
0 mg
Iodine
0 mg
Vitamins
Vitamin A
0 IU
Vitamin D
0 IU
Vitamin E
0 IU
Thiamin (B1)
0 mg
Note:
These values are based on NRC 2007 guidelines and represent minimum requirements. Many nutritionists recommend 25-50% higher values for practical feeding conditions. Always consult with an equine nutritionist for individual dietary planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Digestible Energy (DE) measures the energy in feed that a horse can absorb and use, expressed in Megacalories (Mcal). A maintenance horse needs roughly 15-17 Mcal/day, while performance horses may need 25-35+ Mcal/day depending on workload intensity.
Horses should receive 1.5 to 2.5 times more calcium than phosphorus. An inverted ratio (more phosphorus than calcium) can lead to bone problems including "big head disease" (nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism). Always ensure calcium intake exceeds phosphorus.
Lysine is an essential amino acid that horses cannot synthesize and must obtain from feed. It's critical for muscle development, tissue repair, and growth. The NRC recommends lysine be at least 4% of total crude protein intake, especially for growing horses.
Late pregnancy (months 9-11) increases energy needs by 11-20% and protein by 30-40%. Lactating mares have the highest nutritional demands, requiring nearly double the energy and 2-3x the protein and minerals of a maintenance horse to support milk production.
NRC values represent minimum requirements to prevent deficiency. Many equine nutritionists recommend feeding 25-50% above NRC minimums for vitamins and minerals under practical conditions. Performance horses, senior horses, and those under stress often benefit from higher intake levels.