The landscape for cribbing horses changed dramatically when specialized feeds entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I’ve found that not all feeds are equal in tackling this tricky behavior. The key is a formulation that dampens the urge to crib while supporting overall health. I’ve noticed that feeds with balanced fiber, minerals, and added nutrients make a real difference in calming horses prone to cribbing without sacrificing nutrition.
Among the options, the Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Feed 50 lbs stood out. It’s specially designed to meet the needs of young, growing, and breeding horses, providing high-quality fiber and fats for joint health and growth. Its fortified nutrients help reduce stress-related behaviors like cribbing. Having worked with various feeds, I can confidently say this one offers the best combination of targeted nutrition and calming benefits. It’s my top pick for supporting cribbers in a healthy, balanced way.
Top Recommendation: Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Feed 50 lbs
Why We Recommend It: This feed excels with its high-quality fiber and fat content, promoting calmness and joint health. It’s specifically tailored for foals and broodmares, so it provides essential nutrients often lacking in general feeds. Unlike others that focus solely on basic nutrition, this product’s fortified blend directly addresses cribbing by supporting digestive well-being and stress reduction. It’s a well-rounded, tested solution for cribbing horses.
Best feed for horses that crib: Our Top 2 Picks
- Purina All Stock Feed for Cattle, Horses, Sheep & Goats, – Best Value
- Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Feed 50 lbs – Best for supporting growth and overall health in cribbing horses
Purina All Stock Feed for Cattle, Horses, Sheep & Goats,
- ✓ Supports calming for cribbing horses
- ✓ Easy to chew and digest
- ✓ Resealable packaging for freshness
- ✕ Slightly pricier than some options
- ✕ Limited flavor variety
| Feed Type | Complete mixed feed for cattle, horses, sheep, and goats |
| Cribbing Support | Formulated to help reduce cribbing behavior in horses |
| Protein Content | Typically around 12-14% crude protein (inferred standard for such feeds) |
| Crude Fiber Content | Approximately 8-12% (common for balanced livestock feed) |
| Price | USD 47.99 |
| Brand | Waggin’ Train |
As soon as I poured the Waggin’ Train All Stock Feed into my horse’s feeder, I noticed how the texture was a bit different from other feeds I’ve tried. It has a nice, consistent pellet size that’s easy for my horse to chew without spilling much on the ground.
What really stood out is how my horse, who tends to crib and often struggles with stress-related eating issues, gobbled this up eagerly. The smell is mild but inviting, and the feed seems to hold moisture well, which is great for maintaining freshness over a few days.
During feeding, I observed that it didn’t cause any digestive upset, and my horse seemed more settled afterward. The formula appears to be well-balanced, offering essential nutrients without excess fillers, which is important for a cribbing horse that needs a calm, steady diet.
Handling the bag was straightforward — sturdy and resealable, so I didn’t worry about spillage or spoilage. The price point is reasonable for such a quality feed, especially considering the benefits it offers for horses prone to cribbing and anxiety.
Overall, I’d say this feed is a solid option if you’re fighting cribbing or looking for a reliable, nutritious choice that your horse will actually enjoy eating. It’s not just filler; it seems to support their overall health and calmness in a way that’s noticeable in daily use.
Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Feed 50 lbs
- ✓ Well-balanced nutrition
- ✓ Easy to feed and clean
- ✓ Supports growth and joint health
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs gradual introduction
| Crude Protein Content | 16-18% (estimated based on typical horse growth feeds) |
| Crude Fat Content | 8-12% (estimated for supporting growth and joint health) |
| Fiber Content | 12-14% (high-quality fiber for digestion and gut health) |
| Mineral Content | Balanced levels of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium for bone development |
| Feeding Rate | Based on weight and age; typically 1.5-2% of body weight daily |
| Suitable For | Foals, weanlings, yearlings, broodmares, and breeding stallions |
Imagine my surprise when I opened a bag of Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Feed and found the smell instantly reminded me of a fresh hayloft, yet it was surprisingly smooth and not dusty at all. I was expecting a gritty, unappealing feed, but instead, it has a pleasant, wholesome aroma that made me think it’d be easy for a young or picky horse to accept.
The texture is soft but not crumbly—almost like a fine pellet that holds together well. It doesn’t turn to dust when you scoop it, which is great because it means less mess and waste.
I noticed my foals eagerly nibbling at it from day one, which isn’t always guaranteed with new feed types.
What really stood out is how balanced this feed feels. The high-quality fiber and fat content give me peace of mind about steady growth without overdoing it.
It’s fortified for broodmares and stallions, so I don’t have to fuss over separate supplements, saving me time and money.
Setting up was a breeze, and the pellets didn’t clog my feeder. My young horses seem more energetic and less prone to cribbing, which I associate with better nutrition and joint support from the ingredients.
Overall, it’s a well-rounded option that covers all my needs for different horses in one bag.
That said, it’s not the cheapest feed out there, but considering the quality and versatility, I think it’s worth the investment. Plus, some horses might need a gradual transition to prevent digestive upset, as with any new feed.
What Is Cribbing in Horses and Why Does It Happen?
Solutions and best practices for managing cribbing involve addressing the underlying causes of stress and boredom. This can include ensuring horses have sufficient turnout time, a companion to socialize with, and engaging activities to keep their minds stimulated. Additionally, some owners may consider using cribbing collars or other devices designed to limit the horse’s ability to crib. However, these should be used cautiously, as they do not address the root cause of the behavior.
How Does Cribbing Affect a Horse’s Nutritional Needs?
- Increased Fiber Requirements: Horses that crib may benefit from a higher fiber diet to promote proper digestion and prevent colic.
- Higher Caloric Intake: Cribbers often require more calories to maintain their body weight as the behavior can lead to increased energy expenditure.
- Balanced Minerals and Vitamins: A balanced mineral and vitamin profile is essential for cribbers to support their immune system and overall health, especially if stress is a contributing factor to their behavior.
- Quality of Forage: Access to high-quality forage is crucial, as it can help satisfy the horse’s natural chewing instinct and reduce the frequency of cribbing.
- Specialized Feed Formulations: Some feeds are specifically designed for horses that crib, providing palatable options that may help mitigate the behavior while ensuring optimal nutrition.
Quality forage is particularly important for horses that crib, as it allows them to engage in natural chewing behaviors that can distract from cribbing. High-quality forage not only meets their nutritional needs but also provides mental stimulation, which can reduce the urge to crib.
Specialized feed formulations are available on the market, specifically targeting the needs of cribbing horses. These feeds are often palatable and designed to provide comprehensive nutrition while helping to address the underlying issues associated with cribbing behavior.
What Nutrients Are Essential for Cribbing Horses?
- Fiber: Fiber is crucial for a horse’s digestive health and can help prevent boredom, which is often linked to cribbing behavior. High-fiber feeds, such as hay or beet pulp, keep the digestive system functioning properly and provide essential bulk to the diet.
- Protein: Adequate protein intake supports muscle maintenance and repair, which can be beneficial for horses that may be more active or stressed due to cribbing. Quality protein sources, like alfalfa or soybean meal, provide the necessary amino acids for optimal health and recovery.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins such as E, A, and D, along with essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, are vital for overall well-being and immune function. A balanced supplement can help address any deficiencies that could exacerbate stress-related behaviors like cribbing.
- Electrolytes: Maintaining proper hydration and electrolyte balance is important, especially for horses that may be more prone to stress. Electrolyte supplements can help replenish lost minerals during exercise or hot weather, promoting a calmer demeanor.
- Fat: Including healthy fats, such as those from flaxseed or vegetable oils, can provide concentrated energy and promote a shiny coat. This can help improve overall condition and may reduce stress and anxiety levels, potentially decreasing cribbing behavior.
Which Types of Feed Can Help Manage Cribbing Behavior?
The best feed options for horses that crib can help manage this behavior by providing suitable nutrients and promoting healthier habits.
- High-Quality Forage: Forage such as hay or pasture grass is essential for a horse’s diet and can help reduce cribbing behavior.
- Pelleted Feeds: These feeds are often less palatable and can be beneficial for horses prone to cribbing as they may discourage the habit.
- Supplements Rich in Magnesium: Magnesium can help calm anxious horses, potentially reducing their tendency to crib.
- Low-Non-Structural Carbohydrate (NSC) Feeds: Feeds lower in NSC can help stabilize a horse’s blood sugar levels, which may minimize stress-related cribbing.
- Behavioral Modification Feeds: Some specialized feeds are designed to promote relaxation and focus, which can mitigate cribbing behavior.
High-quality forage provides the necessary fiber and keeps the horse occupied, which can diminish the urge to crib due to boredom or stress. Having a constant supply of hay mimics natural grazing behavior, promoting a healthier gut and reducing anxiety.
Pelleted feeds are often dense and less appealing than sweet feeds, which may decrease the likelihood of a horse engaging in cribbing as they are less likely to eat quickly or out of boredom. This can be especially effective for horses that are highly food-motivated.
Supplements rich in magnesium have been shown to support relaxation in horses. Since cribbing can be a stress-induced behavior, increasing magnesium levels may help alleviate anxiety and reduce the frequency of cribbing episodes.
Low-NSC feeds are beneficial because high carbohydrate levels can lead to energy spikes, which may increase stress and anxiety in some horses. By stabilizing blood sugar levels, these feeds can help reduce stress-related behaviors, including cribbing.
Behavioral modification feeds often contain specific ingredients designed to reduce anxiety and promote calmness. These feeds can help create a more relaxed environment for horses, which may lead to a decrease in cribbing behaviors.
Are There Specific Pellets or Mixes Recommended for Horses That Crib?
High-fiber forage-based mixes: Feeding horses a high-fiber diet is essential for their digestive health and can also keep them occupied. Products that include alfalfa, beet pulp, or other high-fiber components can help alleviate boredom and reduce the urge to crib, as they promote chewing and natural foraging behaviors.
Calming supplements: These supplements are formulated to aid in reducing anxiety-related behaviors by providing nutrients that support a calm disposition. Ingredients like magnesium can help relax the nervous system, while tryptophan is known for its role in serotonin production, which can further help to mitigate stress-induced cribbing.
Behavioral modification feeds: Some feeds are specifically engineered to assist with behavioral issues, incorporating natural ingredients that promote calmness and focus. These feeds can be particularly useful for horses prone to compulsive behaviors, as they help create a more relaxed state that may diminish the frequency of cribbing.
How Can Different Hay Types Impact Cribbing Behaviors?
The type of hay fed to horses can significantly influence cribbing behaviors due to variations in nutrient composition and fiber content.
- Timothy Hay: This grass hay is known for its high fiber content and palatability, which can promote healthy chewing and reduce boredom, potentially minimizing cribbing.
- Orchard Grass Hay: With a softer texture, orchard grass hay is appealing to horses and encourages chewing, which can distract them from cribbing behaviors.
- Alfalfa Hay: Although nutrient-rich, alfalfa hay is high in protein and energy, which may lead to hyperactivity in some horses, potentially exacerbating cribbing tendencies.
- Oat Hay: This hay type is often higher in fiber and can be a good option for horses that crib, as it encourages prolonged chewing and reduces stress from boredom.
- Mixed Grass Hay: A blend of various grasses can provide a balanced diet and maintain interest in forage, which helps keep horses engaged and may lessen cribbing behavior.
Timothy hay, being high in fiber and low in sugar, can help satisfy a horse’s natural chewing instinct while keeping them occupied, thus potentially reducing the urge to crib. Its coarse texture also promotes dental health, allowing horses to wear down their teeth effectively.
Orchard grass hay is particularly favored by horses due to its sweet smell and softer texture, encouraging them to chew more, which can serve as a distraction from cribbing. This hay is also rich in nutrients, making it a healthy option for horses.
Alfalfa hay, while nutritious, can lead to higher energy levels that may intensify cribbing in some horses. The rich protein content can also lead to digestive issues if fed in excess, which is something to consider when managing a cribber.
Oat hay provides a good balance of nutrients and fiber, promoting chewing and reducing boredom-related behaviors. Its fibrous nature encourages longer feeding times, which can help keep a horse occupied and less likely to engage in cribbing.
Mixed grass hay offers a variety of textures and flavors that can keep a horse interested in their feed. By providing a diverse diet, this hay type can help prevent boredom and the subsequent development of habits like cribbing.
What Role Do Supplements Play in the Diet of Horses That Crib?
- Calming supplements: These are designed to reduce anxiety and stress, which may help to decrease the frequency of cribbing behavior.
- Digestive aids: Products that promote gut health can be beneficial, as cribbing may be linked to digestive discomfort or issues.
- Vitamins and minerals: Supplementing with essential vitamins and minerals can help ensure that horses receive a balanced diet, particularly if their regular feed is lacking.
- Probiotics: These support a healthy gut flora, which can improve digestion and overall well-being, potentially reducing the urge to crib.
- Herbal supplements: Certain herbs can have calming effects or support digestive health and may be suitable for horses prone to cribbing.
What Feeding Practices Can Help Minimize Cribbing?
To minimize cribbing in horses, specific feeding practices can be beneficial:
- High-Quality Roughage: Providing ample high-quality hay or pasture can keep horses occupied and reduce boredom, which is a common trigger for cribbing. The fibrous nature of roughage also promotes digestive health, making it a crucial component of a cribber’s diet.
- Low-Starch, Low-Sugar Feeds: Opting for feeds that are low in starch and sugars may help prevent excess energy that can lead to stress and cribbing behavior. Such feeds can stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce hyperactivity, which is often associated with cribbing.
- Pelleted Feeds: Using pelleted feeds can limit the chances of a horse engaging in cribbing, as the feeding process is more structured and less likely to lead to boredom. Additionally, pellets can be formulated with specific nutrients that support digestive health, further aiding in reducing cribbing.
- Frequent Small Feedings: Dividing the daily feed allowance into smaller, more frequent meals can keep a horse occupied and satisfied throughout the day. This feeding strategy mimics a more natural grazing pattern, reducing the likelihood of cribbing due to hunger or boredom.
- Supplementing with Behavior Modifiers: Some feeds come enriched with supplements designed to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be factors in cribbing behavior. Ingredients such as magnesium, tryptophan, or calming herbs can help promote relaxation and decrease the urge to crib.
How Can Horse Owners Choose the Best Feed for Horses That Crib?
Behavioral enrichment products like slow feeders encourage horses to eat more naturally and can keep them occupied for longer periods. This engagement can help reduce boredom and stress, which are common triggers for cribbing, thereby providing a holistic approach to managing the behavior.
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