Posturing and fights at feeding time are common in horse herds. Most scuffles at the feed trough don’t result in injury, but there is always that potential. Dominant horses might also push away those lower in the pecking order, leaving them stressed and perhaps with too little to eat.
Use these strategies to make sure all the horses in your herd get equal opportunity to enjoy each meal.
Friends and Foes
First, feeding at pasture works best if you group horses according to compatibility. Usually this means housing geldings with geldings and mares with mares, rather than mixing the sexes. You’ll know who gets along best by watching them in group situations.
Food adds a contentious element. Be sure to recognize how the horses relate when food is delivered to the feeders. Some that are calm and relaxed just hanging out might turn into aggressive bullies when food comes into the picture.
Spread It Out!
Whenever possible, try to present multiple feeding stations so less-dominant herd members have a place to eat in peace. This might mean dropping hay at various distances in the middle of the pasture.
Don’t put food in areas where a horse could get trapped next to a fence or structure. There should be clear access in and out for a quick escape.
Remove all twine and wire from distributed hay. If you use metal or rubber feeders, make sure legs can’t get trapped during a skirmish
Feed the Boss Separately
The number one strategy to prevent herd fighting is to separate dominant or bullying herd members from the group. That way, they don’t continually disrupt the peace and quiet of horses that want to settle down and just eat.
Removing aggressive horses to an isolated area during feeding might be the most logical and safest strategy to prevent food fights. Quiet conditions also minimize the danger to humans who deliver the feed.
Final Words
Common sense, careful observation, and a bit of trial and error can help you create the most peaceful feeding environment possible. One that is safe for horse and human.
