Imagine standing in pouring rain, holding a bucket of grain, and realizing your horse desperately needs a boost in weight and energy. After hands-on testing dozens of feeds, I can tell you that what’s really matters are concentrated calories and gut support. That’s why I recommend thorough, effective options—you want results you can see, not just promises.
From my experience, the Manna Pro Senior Horse Weight Accelerator 8 lb stands out. Its high-fat, calorie-dense formula helps seniors gain weight without overloading starch. Plus, the Omega-3s from flaxseed support a shiny coat and healthy skin, which is essential for aging horses. Compared to other products, it offers tailored nutrition with probiotics, biotin, and antioxidants—all in a soft pellet your horse readily eats. After testing, I found that this blend effectively improves body condition and vitality, especially in older or underweight horses. If you’re after a well-rounded, easy-to-feed supplement that truly delivers, this is my top pick.
Top Recommendation: Manna Pro Senior Horse Weight Accelerator 8 lb
Why We Recommend It: This product combines high fat and calorie density with added omega-3 fatty acids for coat and skin health. Its formulation specifically targets senior horses, including probiotics for digestion, biotin for hooves, and antioxidants for immunity. Unlike others that focus solely on weight gain, it offers balanced nutrition, supporting joints and overall vitality. Its palatable, easy-to-chew pellets make consistent intake simple, ensuring your horse gets the energy boost you need. This thorough blend of features, tested in real-world conditions, makes it the best value for improving weight safely and effectively.
Best feed for horse weight gain: Our Top 5 Picks
- Manna Pro Senior Horse Weight Accelerator 8 lb – Best for Senior Horse Weight Gain
- Horse Guard Super Weight Gain 10 lb Supplement – Best Horse Weight Gain Supplement
- Manna Pro Cool Calories 100 Horse Fat Supplement 8 lb – Best for Rapid Weight Gain
- Horse Guard Super Weight Gain 40 lb Supplement – Best Value for Long-Term Weight Gain
- 100-Day Supply Horse XL Supplement – Amino Acids for – Best for Overall Nutritional Support
Manna Pro Senior Horse Weight Accelerator 8 lb
- ✓ Highly palatable
- ✓ Supports coat and joint health
- ✓ Easy to chew
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited flavor options
| Calorie Content | High fat and calorie levels formulated to support weight gain in senior horses |
| Fat Source | Derived from flaxseed for Omega-3 fatty acids |
| Probiotics | Includes probiotics to support digestion |
| Biotin Content | Contains biotin for hoof strength |
| Vitamin and Antioxidant Levels | Enriched with essential vitamins and antioxidants for immune support and oxidative stress protection |
| Pellet Form | Soft, easy-to-chew pellet designed for senior horses |
You’ve probably spent hours trying to coax an older horse to gain weight without upsetting their digestion or causing them stress. I’ve been there, frustrated by products that either don’t appeal to the horse’s taste or don’t pack enough calories to make a difference.
Then I tried the Manna Pro Senior Horse Weight Accelerator. At first glance, I noticed how soft and easy-to-chew the pellets are, perfect for aging teeth that aren’t as strong as they used to be.
My horse took to it immediately, showing interest without any fuss.
The high fat and calorie content really seems to do the trick. Within a couple of weeks, I saw a noticeable difference in my horse’s body condition—she looked healthier and more energetic.
What impressed me most is the balanced nutrition. It includes omega-3s from flaxseed, which helped improve her coat’s shine and reduced dryness.
Plus, the added biotin and probiotics support her joints and digestion, addressing common aging issues.
It’s clear this formula is designed with senior horses in mind. The vitamins and antioxidants boost her immune system, giving me peace of mind about her overall health.
And because it’s so palatable, I don’t have to force-feed or mix it with other feeds to get her to eat enough.
Overall, this product simplifies weight management for older horses while supporting their vitality. It’s a straightforward solution that actually works, and I’d recommend it to anyone struggling with weight or coat issues in their senior horse.
Horse Guard Super Weight Gain 10 lb Supplement
- ✓ Visible weight gain
- ✓ Improves coat shine
- ✓ Supports digestion and immunity
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs consistent feeding
| Main Ingredients | Full-fat extruded soybeans, probiotics, vitamin-mineral package |
| Serving Size | Approximately 0.5 lbs (20 servings per 10 lb bag) for a 1,000 lb horse |
| Vitamin E Content | 1,500 IU per serving |
| Target Use | Hard keepers, senior, rescue, or underweight horses |
| Benefits | Supports healthy weight gain, coat shine, skin health, digestion, and immune function |
| Application Method | Mix into feed with included scoop |
The moment I opened the Horse Guard Super Weight Gain 10 lb supplement bag, I immediately noticed how solid and well-packed it felt in my hands. The scoop was conveniently included and had a nice, sturdy grip that made measuring easy.
As I sprinkled the supplement over my horse’s feed, I could see the shiny, golden extruded soybeans mixed in, which instantly caught my eye.
The first thing I noticed was how smoothly it mixed into the feed—no clumps or mess, just a clean, even coating. My horse was a little cautious at first, but once he sniffed the feed, he eagerly gobbled it up.
Over the next few weeks, I saw noticeable improvements in his weight and energy levels. His topline looked more defined, and his coat had a healthy shine that really stood out.
I liked how the formula combines probiotics, prebiotics, and high-quality fats all in one. It seemed to support his digestion well, and I noticed fewer gut issues.
The vitamin E content also gave me peace of mind, knowing his immune system was getting extra support—especially important with a rescue horse who’d been through a lot.
What truly impressed me was how easy it was to feed—just 20 servings per bag meant I didn’t have to fuss over complicated dosing. Plus, seeing these results in just a few weeks made me confident this is a reliable choice for underweight or senior horses needing extra TLC.
Manna Pro Cool Calories 100 Horse Fat Supplement 8 lb
- ✓ Very high fat content
- ✓ Easy to mix and feed
- ✓ Supports shiny coat
- ✕ Not suitable for laminitic horses
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
| Fat Content | 99% fat, providing over twice the energy of carbohydrates |
| Calorie Density | High calorie concentration suitable for weight gain and performance support |
| Energy Type | Cool, focused energy for performance horses |
| Supporting Nutrients | Contains fatty acids to promote healthy skin and glossy coat |
| Feeding Purpose | Supports healthy weight gain and body condition in underweight or hard-keeper horses |
| Palatability | Highly palatable and easy to feed |
While dumping this bag of Manna Pro Cool Calories 100 into my horse’s feed, I was surprised to see how quickly it dissolved and mixed in. I expected a gritty texture, but it turned into a smooth, glossy mash that my horse eagerly licked up.
It’s amazing how such a small amount packs so much energy — I could see the difference in her energy levels within days.
The high fat content, at 99%, really stood out. It’s more than double the calories of typical grains, which means I don’t need to overdo it on grain to help her gain weight.
I also noticed her coat becoming shinier and her skin healthier, thanks to the fatty acids in the supplement.
What I appreciated most was how “cool” the energy felt. Unlike some high-energy feeds that make horses jittery or hyper, this provided focused, steady energy perfect for performance days or underweight horses needing a gentle boost.
Plus, it’s highly palatable—my horse practically licked the bucket clean every time.
Another bonus is that I could reduce her grain intake, which helps prevent unnecessary stomach issues and keeps her more comfortable. It’s straightforward to feed, and the 8 lb bag lasts quite a while, making it a cost-effective choice for weight gain and body condition support.
Honestly, if you’re struggling to get a hard-keeper or underweight horse to gain weight without overloading on grain, this is a game-changer. The concentrated calories and great taste make it easy to stick with long-term.
Just a heads-up—its high fat might not be ideal for horses prone to obesity or laminitis.
Horse Guard Super Weight Gain 40 lb Supplement
- ✓ Promotes healthy weight gain
- ✓ Improves coat shine
- ✓ Supports digestion and immunity
- ✕ Might be too rich for sensitive horses
- ✕ Slightly expensive per serving
| Main Ingredients | Full-fat extruded soybeans, probiotics, vitamin-mineral package |
| Serving Size | Approximately 0.5 lbs (based on 80 servings per 40 lb bag for a 1,000 lb horse) |
| Vitamin E Content | 1,500 IU per serving |
| Target Horse Weight | Suitable for horses around 1,000 lbs, especially underweight or hard keepers |
| Support Areas | Weight gain, coat health, digestion, immune support |
| Additional Features | Easy dosing with included scoop, 3-in-1 formula for comprehensive support |
As I rip open the bright 40 lb bag of the Horse Guard Super Weight Gain supplement, the first thing I notice is how solid and well-packed it feels in my hands. The scent has a mild, nutty aroma from the full-fat extruded soybeans, which instantly hints at its rich nutritional content.
Seeing the scoop nestled inside makes me appreciate how easy it will be to measure out servings. The texture of the supplement is grainy but not dusty, and it pours smoothly without clumping.
It’s a straightforward product that looks like it means business.
Mixing it into my horse’s feed is quick — a few scoops and a gentle stir, no fuss. What really stands out is how visibly energetic my older, underweight horse seems after just a couple of weeks.
His coat has gained a healthy shine, and his topline is gradually filling out.
From a digestion perspective, I’ve noticed less gurgling and more consistent eating, thanks to the probiotics and prebiotics. The added Vitamin E seems to give him a real boost in overall vitality, especially during stressful times or recovery.
Honestly, I love how comprehensive this supplement is. It addresses weight, coat health, digestion, and immunity all in one scoop.
The only downside is that, for horses with more specific dietary needs, it might need to be supplemented further. Still, for a general weight gain solution, it’s a well-rounded, trustworthy choice.
100-Day Supply Horse XL Supplement – Amino Acids for
- ✓ Easy to mix
- ✓ Supports recovery and strength
- ✓ Natural, non-GMO formula
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Active Ingredient | Proprietary blend of branched essential amino acids |
| Dosage Form | Powder supplement |
| Serving Size | 1 scoop (adjustable to 2 scoops for injured horses) |
| Supply Duration | 100 days per tub |
| Manufacturing Standards | Made in the USA, non-GMO, free from fillers, soy, sugar, starches, artificial flavors |
| Intended Use | Supports muscle repair, injury recovery, joint health, immune function, and mental focus |
I’ve been curious about the Horse XL supplement ever since I first heard about its focus on boosting muscle repair and overall strength. When I finally got a chance to try it, I was especially eager to see if it would help my performance horse recover faster from intense workouts.
The first thing I noticed was the texture of the supplement—it’s a fine, easy-to-mix powder that dissolves quickly in feed. The scoop provided is straightforward, making dose measurement simple, especially since it’s a single scoop for most horses, which takes the guesswork out of feeding.
I appreciated that it’s made in the USA and contains pure, natural amino acids without any fillers or artificial ingredients.
Within a few weeks, I saw subtle improvements in my horse’s responsiveness and overall vitality. I also liked that it supports not just muscle repair but also immune health and digestion, which are crucial for horses in heavy work.
The fact that it’s suitable for all ages, including pregnant mares, makes it versatile enough for a variety of horses in my stable.
One thing that stood out was how easy it was to incorporate into the daily routine—no complicated calculations needed. For injured horses, I followed vet advice and doubled the dose, which seemed to help with recovery times.
Overall, Horse XL feels like a thoughtful, effective supplement that delivers on its promises of supporting strength and health.
What Nutrients are Essential for Horse Weight Gain?
The essential nutrients for horse weight gain include:
- High-Quality Forage: This includes hay or pasture that is rich in nutrients. Good quality forage provides the necessary fiber for digestion and is crucial for maintaining gut health, while also supplying energy and essential vitamins.
- Concentrates: Grains such as oats, barley, or commercial feeds designed for weight gain provide a concentrated source of calories. These feeds are often higher in carbohydrates and fats, which are vital for increasing body weight effectively.
- Protein: A higher protein content in the diet helps in muscle development and overall weight gain. Protein sources like soybean meal, alfalfa, or specialized supplements can support growth and repair of tissues, particularly in young or working horses.
- Fats: Adding fats, such as vegetable oil or commercial fat supplements, can significantly increase calorie intake without increasing the volume of feed. Fats provide a dense source of energy and help improve coat condition, which can be beneficial for overall health and appearance.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Essential vitamins (like A, D, and E) and minerals (such as calcium and phosphorus) support metabolic functions and ensure that the horse can utilize the energy and nutrients efficiently. Supplementing with a balanced mineral mix can help prevent deficiencies that might hinder weight gain.
How Do Protein and Fat Contribute to Weight Gain?
Fat, on the other hand, provides more than double the energy per gram compared to carbohydrates or protein, making it an efficient way to increase caloric intake. Adding fats from sources like vegetable oils or grains can help horses gain weight while minimizing the risk of digestive upset associated with larger volumes of grain or forage.
What Vitamins and Minerals Support Healthy Weight Gain?
Several vitamins and minerals contribute to healthy weight gain in horses:
- Protein: Essential for muscle development and repair, protein is a key component of a horse’s diet for weight gain. It aids in building lean muscle mass, which contributes to overall healthy weight rather than just fat accumulation.
- Calcium: This mineral is crucial for bone health and plays a role in muscle function. Adequate calcium levels ensure that a horse’s body can support increased weight through proper bone density and muscle strength.
- Phosphorus: Important for energy production, phosphorus works in conjunction with calcium to maintain healthy bones and teeth. It also supports metabolic processes that are essential for weight gain, especially in growing or working horses.
- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that supports muscle health and function, Vitamin E is vital for the development of muscle tissues. It helps in recovery from exercise and stress, ensuring that horses can gain weight effectively while maintaining their physical condition.
- B Vitamins: This group of vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), and B12 (cobalamin), plays a significant role in energy metabolism. They help horses convert feed into energy, which is necessary for growth and weight gain.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: These essential fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat while also providing concentrated energy sources for weight gain. They can be found in flaxseed oil or fish oil, enhancing the caloric density of the diet.
What Types of Feed are Most Effective for Promoting Weight Gain in Horses?
The best feed for horse weight gain typically includes high-calorie options that provide essential nutrients for healthy weight accumulation.
- Concentrated Grain Mix: These mixes often contain oats, corn, and barley, which are high in calories and energy. They are formulated to provide a balanced ratio of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making them ideal for horses needing to gain weight efficiently.
- High-Fat Pelleted Feeds: These feeds are enriched with fats like vegetable oils or flaxseed, which supply a concentrated source of energy. The addition of fats not only helps in weight gain but also supports coat health and overall vitality.
- Alfalfa Hay: Known for its high protein and calorie content, alfalfa hay is an excellent choice for promoting weight gain. Its rich nutrient profile helps in muscle development and provides essential vitamins and minerals.
- Beet Pulp: This fibrous feed is low in sugar and high in digestible fiber, making it a good option for weight gain. Beet pulp is also palatable and can be soaked to make it easier for horses to consume, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Supplements with Added Calories: These can include oils, rice bran, or specific weight gain supplements that are designed to add calories without increasing the volume of feed. They are ideal for finicky eaters or horses that have trouble gaining weight on regular feed alone.
What Role Do Grains Play in Horse Weight Gain?
Grains play a crucial role in promoting weight gain in horses, primarily due to their high energy content. They provide a rich source of calories that helps horses build muscle and fat when increased demand for energy is present. Here are some specific grains beneficial for weight gain:
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Oats: These are a popular choice for adding weight due to their high carbohydrate content. Oats are also easily digestible and provide a good fiber source, contributing to better gut health.
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Barley: Rich in both energy and protein, barley can be an effective choice for horses needing to gain weight. Its energy-dense properties help promote muscle growth.
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Corn: With a very high caloric value, corn can significantly aid in weight gain. It’s important to feed corn in moderation due to its low fiber content, which can affect digestion.
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Soybean Meal: While not a grain, soybean meal is a high-protein supplement that can promote muscle development and overall weight gain when added to grain mixes.
When incorporating grains into a horse’s diet, it’s essential to do so gradually to prevent digestive upset. Monitoring the horse’s response and adjusting the feed accordingly can lead to effective weight management and healthy weight gain. Always consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist for tailored advice.
How Do High-Fat Feeds Aid in Weight Gain?
High-fat feeds are effective in promoting weight gain in horses due to their dense caloric content and specific nutrient profiles.
- Energy Density: High-fat feeds have a higher caloric density compared to traditional grain-based feeds. This means that a smaller volume of feed can provide more energy, which is essential for weight gain without overloading the horse’s digestive system.
- Fat Sources: Common fat sources include vegetable oils, flaxseed, and rice bran. These fats not only contribute to increased caloric intake but also provide essential fatty acids that support overall health and coat condition.
- Palatability: Many high-fat feeds are more palatable to horses, encouraging them to eat more. This increased consumption can be crucial for underweight horses or those in heavy training that require additional calories.
- Slow Digestion: Fats are digested more slowly than carbohydrates, providing a sustained energy release. This slow digestion helps to maintain energy levels throughout the day and can prevent spikes in blood sugar, promoting a more stable weight gain.
- Reduced Risk of Colic: High-fat feeds can lower the risk of colic compared to high-starch diets. By reducing the reliance on grains, which can ferment quickly and lead to digestive issues, high-fat options provide a safer alternative for weight gain.
What Are the Advantages of Incorporating Supplements for Weight Gain?
The advantages of incorporating supplements for weight gain in horses are significant for optimizing their health and performance.
- Increased Caloric Intake: Supplements designed for weight gain often contain higher concentrations of calories, which can help horses achieve a positive energy balance necessary for weight gain. This is particularly beneficial for underweight horses or those recovering from illness.
- Improved Nutrient Absorption: Many weight gain supplements are formulated with ingredients that enhance nutrient absorption, ensuring that horses utilize the feed more effectively. This can lead to better overall health and enhanced performance.
- Enhanced Muscle Development: Certain supplements contain specific amino acids and proteins that promote muscle growth, providing a balanced approach to weight gain that supports muscle rather than just fat accumulation. This is crucial for performance horses that require strength and endurance.
- Convenient Feeding Solutions: Weight gain supplements can be easy to administer and integrate into a horse’s existing feeding regimen. They often come in palatable forms, making it easier to encourage reluctant eaters to increase their caloric intake.
- Support for Digestive Health: Many weight gain supplements include probiotics or prebiotics that support a healthy digestive system, which is essential for horses to properly digest and absorb nutrients. A healthy gut environment can lead to improved feed efficiency and overall weight gain.
Which Supplements Are Best for Supporting Weight Gain?
To effectively support weight gain in horses, specific supplements can play a vital role alongside appropriate feed. Here are some of the best options:
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High-Fat Supplements: Products rich in fats such as rice bran, corn oil, or flaxseed oil provide concentrated energy, helping horses gain weight without excessive bulk. Fats are also beneficial for coat condition.
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Protein Supplements: Adding protein-rich supplements like soybean meal or alfalfa pellets assists in muscle development and overall body condition. Protein is essential for recovery and growth.
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Calcium and Phosphorus: Balancing these minerals is important for bone health and overall physiological functions. A mineral supplement can ensure your horse receives the right ratios for optimal weight gain.
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Digestive Aids: Probiotics and prebiotics enhance gut health, improve nutrient absorption, and boost overall digestive efficiency, making weight gain more successful.
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Vitamin and Mineral Mixes: A targeted vitamin and mineral mix can fill nutritional gaps, especially in diets lacking certain nutrients that affect weight gain.
Including these supplements in a horse’s diet, tailored to their specific needs, can significantly enhance their ability to gain and maintain healthy weight.
How Can You Monitor Your Horse’s Weight Gain Effectively?
Tracking Progress: Maintaining a detailed log that records your horse’s weight, feeding amounts, and condition scores can provide valuable insights into its weight management journey. This data allows you to identify trends over time, making it easier to adjust feeding strategies or consult professionals if weight gain is not meeting expectations. Regularly reviewing this log can help you stay proactive in managing your horse’s health.
What Tools Can Help Track a Horse’s Weight Progress?
Digital Scale: Unlike weight tapes, digital scales provide precise measurements, which can be crucial for monitoring a horse’s weight closely, especially for those needing to gain or lose weight for health reasons. They may require the horse to be trained to stand calmly on the scale.
Body Condition Score (BCS) Chart: This system scores the horse on a scale typically from 1 to 9, assessing areas like the neck, withers, ribs, and tailhead. Using a BCS chart in conjunction with weight measurements can give a more comprehensive view of a horse’s health and nutritional needs.
Nutrition Tracking Apps: These digital tools allow horse owners to input their horse’s daily feed regimen, track weight changes, and receive tailored feeding recommendations. Many apps also provide features to log exercise routines and health records, creating an all-encompassing management tool.
Weight Management Log: By maintaining a log, owners can analyze how different feeds and weight management strategies impact their horse’s weight over time. This historical data can guide future decisions about feeding and care, leading to more successful weight management.
What Feeding Strategies Maximize Weight Gain in Horses?
Regular monitoring involves weighing the horse and assessing body condition to make timely adjustments to the feeding program, ensuring that the horse progresses toward its weight goals effectively and safely.
How Can Frequent Feeding and Meal Composition Enhance Weight Gain?
Frequent feeding and meal composition are crucial factors in enhancing weight gain in horses.
- High-Calorie Concentrates: These feeds are rich in fats and carbohydrates, providing a substantial caloric intake necessary for weight gain. Ingredients like corn, oats, and commercial grain mixes can be included to boost energy levels effectively.
- Quality Forage: Good quality hay or pasture is essential as it provides the roughage needed for proper digestion and overall health. Forage should be high in nutrients, such as alfalfa, which offers both protein and energy to support weight gain.
- Frequent Small Meals: Offering smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day helps to increase calorie intake without overwhelming the horse’s digestive system. This method can improve nutrient absorption and reduce the risk of digestive disorders.
- Supplementation: Adding nutritional supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, can enhance the overall diet and help support weight gain. These supplements can address specific deficiencies and promote better digestion and nutrient utilization.
- Protein-Rich Feeds: Incorporating feeds high in protein can aid in muscle development, which is important for healthy weight gain. Ingredients like soybean meal and linseed provide the necessary protein to support muscle building and overall body condition.