Why do horses have different appetites?

Why do horses have different appetites?  

If you’ve ever owned more than one horse, you’ll know their eating habits can be wildly different. Some act like bottomless pits, while others pick at their hay all day without much urgency. Just like people, horses have unique appetites, and there are a few reasons why! 

Metabolisation 

Just as humans have different metabolisms, each horse processes energy differently. It is typical for ponies and hardy breeds to be labelled “easy keepers”. That is, they can stay in good condition on minimal calories. On the other hand, hard keepers, typically some Thoroughbreds and high-performance sport horses, can be the opposite, struggling to hold weight even when being fed maximum calories.   

Personality  

Appetite isn’t just about biology, it’s also about behaviour. Some horses are naturally “greedy”, or food motivated, wolfing down feed as soon as the bucket hits the ground. Others are slow, dainty eaters who may take hours to finish a meal. Stress levels, stable hierarchy (especially if paddocks are shared), and feeding environment, can all influence appetite. Just like humans, where some live to eat and others eat to live, horses show personality in how they approach food. 

Overall health 

Changes in appetite are sometimes linked to health issues. Dental problems, ulcers, worms, or pain can reduce how much (or how happily) a horse eats. On the flip side, metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance can make a horse seem hungrier than normal. Regular dental care, worming, and vet checks are essential to ensure your horse’s appetite reflects natural variation, not an underlying problem. 

Workload 

A horse’s job directly impacts how much fuel they need. A horse in heavy training or competition will often develop a stronger appetite to match their energy output. In contrast, a retired paddock companion or lightly ridden horse may not feel the same drive to consume large quantities of feed.  

Environment & Routine 

As we all know, horses are creatures of habit, and their environment can shape how they eat. Changes in routine, such as new feeding times or moving properties, can temporarily boost or dampen appetite. We often experience this too when travelling or competing away from home. Products such as Ranvet’s Recovery Aid Paste can help boost appetite in such situations, but long term, it often is a matter of adjusting to the new routine!  

In summary, yes, horses absolutely have different appetites, just like people do. Breed, metabolism, personality, health, workload, and routine all play a role. The best approach is to feed each horse as an individual, monitor body condition regularly, and monitor for sudden changes in eating habits. By tuning into your horse’s unique needs, you’ll help them stay healthy, happy, and in top condition, no matter what type of eater they are.