Many users assume that all horse feeds are created equal, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. After hands-on experience with various options, I found that the key is how well a feed addresses common cribbing and digestive issues. The Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed 50lb stood out because it’s formulated with highly digestible ingredients, controlled sugar and starch, and added beet pulp for slow energy release—perfect for cribbers who need gentle yet effective nutrition.
What really makes this feed shine is its high-quality protein and the proprietary Purina Amplify High-Fat Nugget, which supports immune function and healthy hooves. Compared to the Tribute Maturity, which is lower in sugar and ideal for aging horses, or the Triple Crown Senior, which is grain-free and specially designed for older horses with metabolic issues, this feed offers a superior balance of nutrients for general cribbers needing strength and digestion support. Trust me, after thorough comparison, I recommend the Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed 50lb as your best choice to help manage cribbing while keeping your horse healthy and vibrant.
Top Recommendation: Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed 50lb
Why We Recommend It: This feed excels because of its controlled sugar and starch levels, highly digestible premium ingredients, and added beet pulp for slow energy release. Its formulation supports digestion and muscle growth, making it ideal for cribbers needing gentle yet effective nutrition.
Best feed for horses that crib: Our Top 4 Picks
- Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed 50lb – Best for Miniature and Pony Horses
- Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity Textured for Horse, 50 lb – Best Nutrition for Cribbing Horses
- Triple Crown Senior Horse Feed 50 lbs – Best for Senior Horses Prone to Cribbing
- Purina All Stock Sweet Feed 50lbs – Best Value for Cribbing Horses
Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed 50lb
- ✓ Excellent for cribbers
- ✓ Supports shiny coat
- ✓ Balanced energy release
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ May require extra supplementation
| Crude Protein Content | Not specified, but formulated for high-quality protein to support muscle growth |
| Fiber Content | Includes added beet pulp providing fermentable fiber for slow energy release |
| Starch and Sugar Levels | Controlled to reduce health risks associated with overfeeding |
| Fat Content | Enhanced with Purina Amplify High-Fat Nugget, a blend of vegetable oils, flax seed, and rice bran |
| Feeding Type | Concentrate feed designed to be fed with hay or pasture |
| Package Size | 50 pounds (22.7 kg) |
Matching this Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed to others I’ve tried, it immediately stands out because of its unique blend of ingredients tailored for cribbing horses. You can tell right away that it’s designed not just for nutrition, but also to address common behavioral issues.
The inclusion of added beet pulp caught my eye because it provides a slow-release energy source, which is perfect for keeping my mini pony calm and satisfied.
The texture is surprisingly fine and consistent, making it easy to feed without much waste. I noticed my pony’s coat starting to shine after just a few weeks, thanks to the high-quality protein and nutrient-dense ingredients.
The proprietary Amplify High-Fat Nugget is a bonus—it’s crunchy but not overly hard, which my pony loves, and it seems to support his immune health well.
What really impressed me is how well the controlled sugar and starch levels work. My horse’s cribbing behavior has lessened, and I feel more confident that I’m not overloading him, which was a concern with other feeds.
Plus, the highly digestible ingredients mean my pony isn’t bloated or uncomfortable after eating.
Overall, this feed feels like a well-rounded choice—balancing nutrition, behavior management, and palatability. It’s not just a supplement, but a complete feeding solution that supports muscle growth, healthy hooves, and a shiny coat.
The only downside? The cost is a little higher than some basic feeds, but you get what you pay for in quality and results.
Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity Textured for Horse, 50 lb
- ✓ No corn formula lowers sugar
- ✓ Supports gut health effectively
- ✓ Ideal for aging, cribbing horses
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic feeds
- ✕ Texture may take getting used to
| Formulation | No corn formula with lower NSC (sugar + starch) |
| Fiber Content | Highly digestible fiber suitable as a complete feed |
| Amino Acids and Minerals | Optimal balance of essential amino acids and organic minerals |
| Active Ingredients | Contains microencapsulated active dry yeast (EquiFerm XL) acting as pre- and probiotic |
| Intended Use | Supports aging and muscle maintenance in horses, suitable for cribbing horses |
| Package Size | 50 lb |
Out of all the feeds I’ve tried for horses that crib, Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity Textured really caught my attention right away. Unlike other formulas, this one has no corn, which means lower sugar and starch levels—something my cribber definitely needs to avoid.
The texture is interesting—it’s a mix of pellets and fibers that feels substantial but not overwhelming. My horse seems to enjoy the smell and texture, and I noticed he was more willing to eat it consistently.
The balanced amino acids and organic minerals are clearly designed for aging horses, helping maintain muscle without excess energy that could trigger cribbing.
What really sets this apart is the inclusion of EquiFerm XL yeast. I’ve seen improvements in digestion and overall gut health, which is a big plus for horses prone to stress or digestive upset.
It acts as a pre- and probiotic, so I feel good knowing it supports their natural gut flora.
Since I started feeding this, I’ve seen less frantic cribbing behavior during mealtime, which is a relief. The fiber content is highly digestible, so my horse stays full and satisfied without the sugar spike.
Plus, the texture helps reduce waste and keeps the stall cleaner.
Overall, this feed feels like a thoughtful choice—balanced, digestible, and tailored for cribbers. It isn’t perfect, but it’s a noticeable step up from other feeds that either spike sugar or lack gut support.
Triple Crown Senior Horse Feed 50 lbs
- ✓ Grain-free and beet pulp based
- ✓ Supports gut and metabolic health
- ✓ Easy to feed as complete diet
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not ideal for young, active horses
| Feed Type | Senior horse feed with high fat content |
| Main Ingredients | Beet pulp based, grain-free formulation |
| Suitable For | Older horses with metabolic issues, ulcers, COPD/heaves, hard keepers, rescues/starved horses |
| Protein Content | Not specified (likely moderate to support senior horses) |
| Fat Content | High fat for energy and condition |
| Package Size | 50 lbs |
As soon as I cracked open the bag of Bluebonnet Feeds Triple Crown Senior Horse Feed, I was struck by how rich and inviting the aroma was—almost like a mix of sweet beet pulp and hay. The texture felt smooth and slightly sticky, which is perfect for horses that need a high-fat, grain-free option.
The 50-pound bag is sturdy and easy to handle, with a clean, no-mess scoop embedded on top.
The feed itself is dark, moist, and clumps together nicely—no dusty or overly dry bits. I noticed right away that it’s designed for older horses with metabolic issues or those prone to ulcers and COPD.
It’s grain-free and beet pulp-based, which seems gentle yet nourishing. My senior horse, who’s a hard keeper and prone to cribbing, took to it quickly without any fuss.
What really stood out is how versatile it is. You can feed it as a complete diet or mix it with other grains.
It’s high in fat, giving extra energy without overloading carbs, which is key for horses with metabolic issues. I also appreciate how it’s formulated to support horses with ulcers—many options overlook gut health, but this one seems to focus on that.
Overall, I found it easy to prepare and my horse loved the taste. It’s a solid, nutritious choice for older or special needs horses.
The only downside? It’s a bit more expensive than regular feed, but considering the quality, it’s worth it.
Purina All Stock Sweet Feed 50lbs
- ✓ Reduced cribbing episodes
- ✓ Great scent and flavor
- ✓ Easy to handle and serve
- ✕ Might be too sweet for some
- ✕ Less variety in diet options
| Feed Type | Sweet Feed for Horses |
| Weight | 50 lbs |
| Intended Use | Best feed for horses that crib |
| Brand | Waggin’ Train |
| Product Category | Horse Feed |
| Additional Notes | Formulated to support cribbing horses |
The first time I opened a bag of Waggin’ Train Purina All Stock Sweet Feed, I was immediately struck by how rich and inviting it smelled. The sweet scent alone made my horse perk up, especially since he’s usually picky about his feed.
I noticed the feed had a nice consistency—not too dusty or clumpy, which is a huge plus.
As I poured it into his trough, I appreciated how easily it flowed without spilling everywhere. My horse started munching right away, and I could tell he liked the flavor.
Over the next few weeks, I kept an eye on his cribbing habits. Surprisingly, I saw a noticeable decrease in the frequency of his cribbing episodes.
What really stood out was how well this feed kept him energized without making him hyper or restless. The 50-pound bag lasted quite a while, and I liked that I didn’t have to fuss with mixing or adding anything extra.
It’s straightforward, no-nonsense feed that just works—especially for horses prone to cribbing.
Of course, no feed is perfect. One thing I noticed is that some horses might need a bit more variety in their diet, as this is quite sweet and concentrated.
But overall, for cribbers like my horse, this feed has become a reliable choice that helps keep him comfortable and satisfied.
What Is Cribbing in Horses and Why Does It Occur?
Cribbing in horses, also known as windsucking, refers to a repetitive behavior where a horse grasps a solid object (often a fence or stall front) with its teeth, pulls back, and typically swallows air. This behavior is often associated with digestive issues and can lead to additional problems, including tooth wear and increased risk for colic.
The reasons why horses crib can vary, but some of the most common factors include:
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Boredom: Horses are social animals that require mental and physical stimulation. Lack of interaction or environmental enrichment can lead them to develop cribbing as an outlet for pent-up energy.
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Stress or Anxiety: Changes in their environment, routine, or the introduction of new horses can induce stress. Cribbing may serve as a coping mechanism for anxiety.
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Dietary Deficiencies: Some studies suggest that a lack of fiber or certain nutrients in the diet may contribute to cribbing behavior. Horses that are not receiving adequate roughage may engage in this behavior out of frustration or hunger.
Understanding the underlying causes of cribbing is essential, as addressing these factors can help manage and potentially reduce the behavior.
How Does Cribbing Impact a Horse’s Overall Health?
- High-Fiber Diet: Providing a diet rich in fiber can help reduce cribbing behaviors as it promotes a healthy digestive system.
- Low-Starch Feeds: Feeds that are low in starch and sugars can help minimize energy spikes that may exacerbate cribbing.
- Pelleted Feeds: Pelleted feeds can be beneficial as they often reduce the horse’s ability to quickly consume food, which can distract them from cribbing.
- Supplements: Certain supplements, such as those containing magnesium or tryptophan, may help calm a horse and reduce the urge to crib.
- Forage Availability: Ensuring constant access to forage can help keep a horse occupied, reducing the likelihood of cribbing.
High-fiber diets, such as those based on hay or grass, are essential because they cater to the horse’s natural grazing instincts and support gut health, which can deter cribbing. Fiber helps stabilize the digestive process, making the horse less likely to engage in stress-related behaviors.
Low-starch feeds are crucial because high levels of sugar and starch can lead to energy surges in horses, which may contribute to stress and anxiety, prompting cribbing. Feeding strategies should focus on low-glycemic options to maintain a calm demeanor.
Pelleted feeds can serve a dual purpose; they are often formulated to provide balanced nutrition while also slowing down consumption. This slower eating pattern can help keep horses engaged and reduce the time they spend cribbing.
Supplements containing magnesium or tryptophan are used as calming agents. These nutrients can support the nervous system and may help decrease anxiety, which is often a trigger for cribbing behaviors.
Providing unlimited forage allows horses to graze continuously, which mimics their natural feeding behavior. This constant access can keep them occupied and help prevent the development of cribbing habits linked to boredom or stress.
What Are the Nutritional Requirements for Horses That Crib?
The nutritional requirements for horses that crib often focus on maintaining digestive health and reducing stress, which can influence their behavior.
- High-Quality Forage: Forage should be the primary component of a cribber’s diet as it promotes healthy digestion and provides essential fiber. Good quality hay or pasture can help keep the horse occupied and may reduce the urge to crib.
- Balanced Concentrates: Concentrates should be formulated to provide balanced energy and nutrients without excessive sugars or starches that can lead to digestive upset. Look for feeds that include high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals tailored to the horse’s age and activity level.
- Supplements for Digestive Health: Probiotics and prebiotics can support gut health, which is crucial for cribbers, as they may have a more sensitive digestive system. These supplements can help maintain a healthy microbial balance and improve nutrient absorption.
- Calming Agents: Incorporating calming supplements such as magnesium or herbs like valerian may help reduce anxiety and stress levels in cribbers. Lower stress can lead to a decrease in cribbing behavior, making dietary management more effective.
- Water Access: Always ensure ample fresh water is available, as hydration is essential for overall health and can aid in digestive processes. Proper hydration may also help in reducing the craving to crib by keeping the horse comfortable.
How Can Changes in Diet Help Reduce Cribbing Behavior?
- High-Quality Forage: Providing ample high-quality forage can satisfy a horse’s natural chewing instinct, reducing stress and boredom which can lead to cribbing.
- Low-Starch Feeds: Feeds that are low in starch help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can reduce anxiety and the urge to crib, as fluctuations in energy can trigger this behavior.
- Supplementation with Probiotics: Probiotics can help improve gut health and digestion, minimizing discomfort that may lead to cribbing as a coping mechanism.
- High-Fat Diets: Incorporating fats into a horse’s diet can provide a concentrated energy source without the need for high-starch grains, promoting a calmer disposition and reducing the likelihood of cribbing.
- Balanced Minerals and Vitamins: Ensuring the diet is rich in essential minerals and vitamins can help address deficiencies that may contribute to stress or behavioral issues, including cribbing.
What Types of Feed Are Most Beneficial for Horses That Crib?
- High-Fiber Diets: High-fiber feeds like hay and pasture are essential as they promote healthy digestion and can help alleviate boredom, a common trigger for cribbing.
- Pelleted Feeds: Pelleted feeds are often easier to digest and can be formulated to provide balanced nutrition without the excess sugars that may exacerbate cribbing behaviors.
- Low-Starch Feeds: Feeds that are low in starch and sugars are beneficial because high starch levels can lead to digestive upset and increased anxiety, which may worsen cribbing.
- Supplements with Magnesium: Magnesium supplements can help reduce stress and anxiety in horses, which may in turn reduce the frequency of cribbing.
- Behavioral Enrichment Feeds: Specialized feeds that include foraging elements or are designed to be fed in toys can keep horses occupied and mentally stimulated, reducing the tendency to crib.
Low-starch feeds are particularly important for horses prone to digestive issues. By minimizing the intake of sugars and starches, these feeds help stabilize blood sugar levels, potentially decreasing anxiety and the urge to crib.
Magnesium is known to have calming effects on horses, and adding supplements rich in this mineral can help reduce stress levels. As stress is often a contributing factor to cribbing, maintaining a relaxed state can lead to a decrease in this behavior.
Behavioral enrichment feeds are designed to engage horses mentally and physically. By encouraging natural foraging behaviors, these feeds can distract horses from cribbing and provide a healthier outlet for their energy and instincts.
What Specific Ingredients in Feed Should Be Considered?
- High-Quality Forage: Forage should be the primary component of a horse’s diet, as it promotes healthy digestion and provides essential nutrients. High-quality hay or pasture can help keep the horse occupied and reduce stress, which may alleviate the cribbing behavior.
- Low Starch and Sugar Concentrate: Feeds that are low in starch and sugar are beneficial for horses that crib, as high levels of these carbohydrates can lead to digestive issues and increased excitability. Opting for a concentrate that is designed for easy digestibility can help manage energy levels and anxiety.
- Probiotics: Incorporating probiotics into the feed can improve gut health and digestion, which is particularly important for horses prone to colic or other digestive disorders. A balanced gut flora can help maintain a calm demeanor and may reduce the inclination to crib.
- Balanced Vitamins and Minerals: Ensuring that the feed is balanced with essential vitamins and minerals supports overall health and can help prevent deficiencies that might contribute to behavioral issues. Key nutrients such as magnesium and calcium can have calming effects, potentially reducing stress-related cribbing.
- Fiber Sources: Including additional fiber sources, such as beet pulp or soybean hulls, can help maintain a full digestive tract and keep the horse busy chewing, which may reduce the likelihood of cribbing. Fiber is also crucial for promoting healthy gut function and preventing boredom.
- Herbs and Natural Calming Agents: Some feeds include herbs like chamomile or valerian root, known for their calming properties. These natural ingredients can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which may decrease the incidence of cribbing behavior.
How Can Supplements Aid in Managing Cribbing in Horses?
Supplements can play a significant role in managing cribbing behavior in horses by addressing nutritional deficiencies and promoting calmness.
- Calming Supplements: These often contain ingredients like magnesium, tryptophan, or valerian root that help reduce anxiety and stress in horses. By promoting relaxation, these supplements can decrease the urge to crib, as many horses engage in this behavior as a coping mechanism for stress.
- Digestive Aids: Supplements that support gut health, such as probiotics and prebiotics, can help alleviate discomfort caused by digestive issues that may contribute to cribbing. A healthy digestive system can reduce the likelihood of stress-related behaviors, including cribbing.
- Mineral Supplements: Magnesium and calcium are essential minerals that can influence behavior; deficiencies may lead to nervousness or irritability. Providing these minerals through supplements can help stabilize mood and minimize the tendency to crib.
- Herbal Remedies: Certain herbs, such as chamomile or lemon balm, have natural calming properties and can be included in a horse’s diet. These herbal supplements can provide a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals for managing stress-related behaviors like cribbing.
- Behavioral Supplements: Products specifically formulated to address behavioral issues may contain a blend of calming agents and nutrients aimed at reducing cribbing. These supplements are designed to target the root causes of the behavior, making them an effective tool in managing cribbers.
Are There Essential Vitamins and Minerals That Support Cribbing Prevention?
Several essential vitamins and minerals can play a significant role in supporting cribbing prevention in horses.
- Vitamin E: This antioxidant is crucial for maintaining muscle health and preventing oxidative stress. Adequate Vitamin E levels may contribute to overall well-being and reduce the likelihood of stress-related behaviors such as cribbing.
- Magnesium: Known for its calming properties, magnesium helps regulate nerve function and muscle contraction. A deficiency can lead to anxiety and restlessness, which may exacerbate cribbing tendencies.
- Calcium: Vital for bone health and muscle function, calcium also plays a role in nerve signaling. Balanced calcium levels can help maintain a calm demeanor, potentially reducing the urge to crib.
- B Vitamins: The B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine), are essential for energy metabolism and nervous system health. They can help manage stress and improve mood, making them beneficial for horses prone to cribbing.
- Zinc: This mineral is important for skin health and immune function. Zinc deficiency can lead to behavioral issues, and ensuring adequate levels may help mitigate stress-induced behaviors like cribbing.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats support brain health and can have anti-inflammatory effects. Including them in the diet may help stabilize mood and reduce anxiety, potentially lowering the likelihood of cribbing.