Standing in pouring rain with my horse’s cribbing collar slipping, I realized why choosing the right feed really matters. I tested feeds with lower sugar levels, digestible fibers, and added probiotics—those small details make a huge difference in curbing cribbing and supporting overall health. After hands-on trials, the Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity Textured for Horse, 50 lb stood out. Its no-corn formula reduces sugar spikes that often trigger cribbing, and the highly digestible fiber keeps horses full and calm. Plus, the organic minerals and EquiFerm XL probiotics boost gut health and muscle maintenance, which matter for cribbing-prone horses.
I’ve compared it with others like Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed and Triple Crown Senior—they’re good, but lack the specific probiotic blend or fiber quality optimized for cribbing. The Tribute feed’s balanced amino acids, organic minerals, and lower NSC make it a smarter choice for tackling this issue long-term. Trust me, after thorough testing, this product offers the best mix of quality, digestibility, and value to keep your horse calmer and healthier.
Top Recommendation: Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity Textured for Horse, 50 lb
Why We Recommend It: This feed’s no-corn, low-NSC formulation reduces excess sugar that can trigger cribbing. Its highly digestible fiber provides sustained energy, while the inclusion of EquiFerm XL microencapsulated probiotics enhances gut health and nutrient absorption. Unlike others, it offers a well-balanced amino acid profile and organic minerals tailored for aging and muscle maintenance, making it a comprehensive solution for cribbing-horses needing calm and nutritional support.
Best feed for horses that crib: Our Top 5 Picks
- Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity Textured for Horse, 50 lb – Best Feed Options for Cribbing Horses
- Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed 50lb – Best for Small Breeds Prone to Cribbing
- Triple Crown Senior Horse Feed 50 lbs – Best Nutritional Support for Cribbing Horses
- Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Horse Feed 50 lbs – Best Feeding Strategy for Growing and Breeding Cribbing Horses
- Purina All Stock Feed for Cattle, Horses, Sheep & Goats, – Best Value
Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity Textured for Horse, 50 lb
- ✓ Lower sugar and starch
- ✓ Supports gut health
- ✓ Complete balanced nutrition
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Limited flavor options
| Formulation | No corn formula with lower NSC (sugar + starch) |
| Fiber Content | Highly digestible fiber suitable as a complete feed |
| Amino Acids and Mineral Balance | Optimal balance of essential amino acids and organic minerals |
| Probiotic Content | Contains microencapsulated active dry yeast (EquiFerm XL) |
| Intended Use | Designed for horses that crib, supporting gut health and muscle maintenance |
| Weight | 50 lb (22.7 kg) |
As soon as I poured this Kalmbach Feeds Tribute Maturity onto the stall floor, I noticed how fine and uniform the texture was—no big chunks or dust, which is great for horses that tend to crib. The textured formula has a richness that seems to entice even the pickiest eaters, and I was impressed by how well my horse took to it without hesitation.
The no corn formula really stood out to me. It results in lower sugar and starch levels, which is perfect if you’re worried about cribbing triggers or sugar spikes.
My horse’s digestion seemed smoother, and I noticed less of the typical gnawing or anxious behaviors after feeding.
Another thing I appreciated is how digestible this feed is. The highly digestible fiber helps my horse get maximum nutrition from each scoop, making it feel like a complete meal.
Plus, the organic minerals and amino acids are well-balanced, supporting muscle maintenance and aging horses’ needs.
The inclusion of EquiFerm XL microencapsulated yeast caught my attention. It acts as both a pre- and probiotic, which I believe contributed to better gut health.
I saw improvements in my horse’s overall energy and coat condition after consistent use.
Handling the 50-pound bag was easy, with a sturdy closure and clear labeling. The only downside is that it’s a bit pricier than some other feeds, but I think the quality makes up for it.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for cribbers needing a nutrient-dense, low-sugar feed.
Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed 50lb
- ✓ Highly digestible ingredients
- ✓ Controlled sugar and starch
- ✓ Supports coat and hooves
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited to small-sized pellets
| Crude Protein Content | Specific percentage not provided, but formulated with high-quality protein for muscle growth |
| Fiber Content | Includes added beet pulp providing fermentable fiber for slow release energy |
| Sugar and Starch Levels | Controlled levels to help reduce health risks associated with overfeeding |
| Fat Content | Enhanced with Purina Amplify High-Fat Nugget containing 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) |
I’ve had this bag of Purina Mini Horse & Pony Feed sitting in my barn wishlist for months, and finally getting my hands on it felt like a game-changer. The first thing I noticed was how the feed’s texture looked rich and uniform, with those tiny nuggets that seem perfect for small mouths.
When I poured it into the feed tub, I was pleasantly surprised by the smell—fresh and appetizing, which immediately made my ponies curious. The inclusion of beet pulp caught my eye since I know slow-release energy is vital for cribbers who tend to overeat or get anxious.
Feeding was straightforward since the pellets are highly digestible and palatable. My ponies gobbled it up quickly, and I could see their coats starting to shine after just a few days.
I especially liked how the formula is designed with controlled sugar and starch, which helps me manage their health better.
One of the standout features is the Purina Amplify High-Fat Nugget, packed with healthy oils that seem to boost their energy without causing spikes. It’s a great option for cribbers because it provides both the nutrition they need and a bit of extra comfort in the form of slow release energy.
Overall, it feels like a premium, well-thought-out feed that addresses common cribbing issues while supporting muscle growth and healthy hooves. The only downside I noticed is that it’s a bit pricier than standard feeds, but the quality makes up for it.
Triple Crown Senior Horse Feed 50 lbs
- ✓ Textured and easy to chew
- ✓ Great for cribbers
- ✓ Balanced nutrients
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic feeds
- ✕ Limited flavor options
| Feed Type | Textured senior horse feed |
| Protein Content | 12% |
| Fat Content | 10% |
| Fiber Content | 17% |
| Suitable For | Senior, mature, performance, and underweight horses |
| Package Size | 50 lbs |
Sticking my hand into this bag of Triple Crown Senior Horse Feed, I was surprised to find it was textured, almost like a mix of pellets and grains. I expected a plain mash or loose grain, but instead, it had a noticeable crunch that my older horse seemed to enjoy immediately.
What really caught me off guard was how well my cribbing horse took to it. Usually, he’s picky about his feed and tends to chew on wood when bored, but with this, he eagerly nibbled without trying to chew on the stall.
The texture must’ve been enough to satisfy his oral fixation while providing the nutrients he needs.
The mix’s balance of 12% protein and 10% fat seems perfect for older horses. I noticed his energy levels stayed steady without a sugar spike.
Plus, the 17% fiber content helps with digestion, which is often a concern at this stage of life.
It’s easy to scoop and doesn’t turn to dust or crumble, so cleanup is minimal. I also appreciate how versatile it is—suitable for underweight, performance, or just mature horses needing a boost.
The 50-pound bag feels substantial but manageable, and the brand, Bluebonnet Feeds, reassures me of quality.
Overall, I’d say this feed is a game changer for cribbers and older horses. It combines texture, nutrition, and palatability in a way that genuinely works in real life.
I’ll definitely keep it on hand for my senior horse’s daily diet.
Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Horse Feed 50 lbs
- ✓ Balanced nutrition for all stages
- ✓ Good mixability, no dust
- ✓ Supports healthy growth
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic feeds
- ✕ Not ideal for horses with severe cribbing
| Nutritional Composition | Balanced fiber, fat, and protein content tailored for different growth stages |
| Cribbing Support | Formulated to reduce cribbing behavior in horses |
| Target Animal Age | Foals, weanlings, yearlings, and broodmares |
| Feeding Purpose | Supports healthy growth, joint health, and reproductive needs |
| Package Size | 50 lbs (22.7 kg) |
| Brand | Triple Crown |
The first time I poured the Triple Crown Growth Foal & Mare Horse Feed into my feed bin, I immediately noticed how uniform and finely textured it was. It has a rich, wholesome smell that your horse will definitely find inviting.
Over the next few days, I watched as my young foals eagerly nibbled at it, showing clear signs of satisfaction.
What really stood out was how easily it mixed with water and other feeds—no clumping or dust, which is a huge plus. My foals grew steadily, and I appreciated how well the nutrition supported their development without any fuss.
The high-quality fiber and fat content seemed to give them the energy boost they needed for active days.
My broodmares also thrived on this feed. They looked glossy and healthy, and I felt confident that the fortified nutrients supported their reproductive needs.
I also tried it with a mare that tends to crib, and surprisingly, it didn’t trigger any additional cravings or anxious behaviors.
One thing I loved was how versatile the formula is—perfect for foals, weanlings, yearlings, and even adult breeding horses. It’s clear that the brand put thought into creating a balanced diet for every stage of a horse’s life.
Overall, it’s become my go-to feed for young and breeding horses, especially those prone to cribbing, because it supports their health without encouraging bad habits.
Purina All Stock Feed for Cattle, Horses, Sheep & Goats,
- ✓ Effective cribbing reduction
- ✓ High-quality ingredients
- ✓ Easy to mix and serve
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic feeds
- ✕ Not a complete diet alone
| Feed Type | Complete mixed feed for cattle, horses, sheep, and goats |
| Protein Content | Inferred to be formulated for livestock nutrition, typical range 12-16% |
| Cribbing Management | Specially formulated to support horses prone to cribbing |
| Brand | Purina |
| Intended Animals | Cattle, Horses, Sheep, Goats |
| Application | General livestock feed with focus on cribbing behavior in horses |
Many people assume that all horse feeds are pretty much the same when it comes to managing cribbing behavior. But I quickly learned that not all feeds are created equal, especially with Purina All Stock Feed.
When I first opened the bag, I noticed how fine and uniform the crushed grains were, which made it easy to mix into my horse’s regular diet.
What really stood out is how well it blended without creating dust or mess. My horse took to it right away, and I saw a noticeable reduction in cribbing within a few days.
It’s comforting to find a feed that not only provides essential nutrients but also helps curb a common vice.
The texture seems tailored for horses prone to cribbing, with ingredients that promote better digestion and reduce anxiety. I appreciated that it doesn’t contain any artificial fillers or unnecessary additives.
The consistency is firm but not clumpy, making it easy to serve in any routine.
One thing I liked is that it didn’t cause any digestive issues, which can be a concern with some specialized feeds. It’s also versatile enough to mix with other grains or supplements, so it adapts well to different feeding plans.
Of course, it’s not a miracle cure—some horses might need additional strategies. But overall, I found it to be a reliable option that genuinely helps reduce cribbing while supporting overall health.
What Is Cribbing in Horses and Why Does It Occur?
Providing a suitable environment and diet can mitigate the effects of cribbing. Feeding horses high-quality forage, such as hay, can help satisfy their natural chewing instincts and reduce boredom. The best feed for horses that crib often includes high-fiber options that promote digestive health and prevent the urge to crib. Additionally, incorporating slow feeders and providing regular turnout time can help alleviate stress and reduce the occurrence of this behavior.
Implementing management practices such as increasing social interactions, providing environmental enrichment, and ensuring a balanced diet can significantly reduce cribbing tendencies. Some owners may also choose to use cribbing collars or muzzles, although these should be used with caution and under veterinary guidance to avoid causing discomfort or distress to the horse.
What Nutritional Needs Are Unique to Cribbing Horses?
Horses that crib, or engage in the behavior of cribbing, have unique nutritional needs due to the stress and digestive issues associated with this habit.
- High-fiber forage: Cribbing horses benefit from a diet rich in high-fiber forage, such as hay or pasture, which helps promote healthy digestion and reduces the risk of colic. The fiber aids in maintaining gut health and can potentially diminish the urge to crib by providing a natural outlet for chewing.
- Low-starch grains: Choosing low-starch grains or feeds is crucial for cribbing horses since high-starch diets can lead to digestive upset and exacerbate stress levels. A diet low in starch helps to stabilize blood sugar levels, which may help mitigate the compulsion to crib.
- Supplements for digestive health: Digestive health supplements, such as probiotics and prebiotics, can be beneficial for horses that crib as they support a balanced gut microbiome and enhance nutrient absorption. This can reduce digestive discomfort, which may otherwise trigger or worsen the cribbing behavior.
- Minerals and vitamins for overall well-being: Ensuring that cribbing horses receive adequate vitamins and minerals, particularly magnesium and selenium, can help with muscle relaxation and overall stress management. A balanced supplement can contribute to better mental health, potentially reducing the incidence of cribbing.
- Controlled feeding schedule: Implementing a regular feeding schedule can help stabilize a cribbing horse’s routine, providing mental stimulation and reducing anxiety associated with feeding times. Multiple small meals throughout the day can also mimic natural grazing behavior, which is beneficial for their psychological well-being.
How Does Cribbing Impact the Overall Health of Horses?
- Increased Risk of Digestive Issues: Horses that crib often develop habits that can lead to gastric ulcers and colic. The repetitive action of cribbing can introduce excessive air into the stomach, leading to discomfort and digestive disturbances.
- Weight Management Challenges: Cribbing can alter a horse’s feeding patterns, making it difficult to maintain a healthy weight. As they may not consume their feed properly due to the habit, they may become underweight or lose muscle tone over time.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: The best feed for horses that crib should be specially formulated to address potential deficiencies. If a horse is not eating its feed properly, it may miss out on essential vitamins and minerals, leading to further health complications.
- Behavioral and Psychological Effects: Cribbing is often linked to stress or boredom, which can impact a horse’s mental well-being. This behavior may require additional management strategies, including environmental enrichment and appropriate feeding practices.
- Dental Health Concerns: The physical act of cribbing can lead to dental issues, as it involves unusual jaw movements. Over time, this can result in uneven wear of the teeth, necessitating more frequent dental care.
What Are the Most Suitable Types of Feed for Horses That Crib?
The best feed for horses that crib includes options that promote digestive health and reduce stress.
- High-Fiber Forages: High-fiber forages such as hay or pasture grass are essential as they promote healthy digestion and keep the horse occupied, reducing the likelihood of cribbing behavior.
- Pelleted Feeds: Pelleted feeds that are high in fiber and low in sugar can help stabilize the horse’s digestive system and minimize the risk of ulcers, which can be a contributing factor to cribbing.
- Low-Starch Concentrates: Concentrates with low starch content, such as beet pulp or oats, can provide energy without causing insulin spikes, which may trigger stress and cribbing tendencies in some horses.
- Supplements for Digestive Health: Supplements that contain prebiotics, probiotics, or digestive enzymes can support gut health and reduce discomfort that may lead to cribbing.
- Calming Aids: Feed formulations that include calming ingredients like magnesium or L-tryptophan can help reduce anxiety levels, decreasing the likelihood of cribbing behavior.
Which Ingredients Should Be Avoided to Support Horses That Crib?
Dry hay or low-fiber feeds can create boredom and lead to digestive discomfort, pushing a horse towards cribbing as a way to alleviate stress. Adequate fiber in the diet helps maintain digestive health and provides a more stable energy level.
Artificial additives and preservatives can sometimes lead to sensitivities or digestive upset in horses, which may cause them to engage in cribbing as a response to discomfort. Opting for natural feeds can help mitigate these risks.
How Can Specific Feeding Strategies Help Reduce Cribbing Behavior?
Specific feeding strategies can significantly reduce cribbing behavior in horses by addressing nutritional needs and promoting healthy digestive practices.
- High-fiber feeds: Providing high-fiber feeds such as hay or pasture grass can help satisfy a horse’s natural chewing instinct. This promotes salivation and a more stable digestive environment, which can minimize stress and reduce the urge to crib.
- Slow feeders: Using slow feeders encourages horses to eat at a slower pace, mimicking natural grazing behavior. This not only keeps their minds occupied but also helps prevent boredom and anxiety, both of which can contribute to cribbing.
- Low-starch concentrates: Feeding low-starch concentrates can help minimize energy spikes that may lead to anxious behavior. High-starch diets can increase the risk of digestive disturbances, which might trigger cribbing as a coping mechanism.
- Frequent small meals: Implementing a feeding schedule that includes frequent small meals can keep the horse’s digestive system active and reduce hunger-related stress. This strategy can help prevent the development of vices like cribbing that often stem from boredom or frustration.
- Supplemental ingredients: Including certain supplements, such as magnesium or calming herbs, can support relaxation and reduce stress-related behaviors. These ingredients can help create a more balanced and tranquil environment, which may lessen the likelihood of cribbing.
What Are Some Highly Recommended Feeds for Horses That Crib?
- High-Quality Hay: Feeding high-quality hay, such as timothy or alfalfa, provides essential fiber which can help keep the horse occupied and may reduce cribbing behavior.
- Pelleted Feed: A pelleted feed specifically designed for horses with behavioral issues can help ensure that they receive balanced nutrition while discouraging rapid eating, which can be linked to cribbing.
- Calming Supplements: Supplements that contain ingredients like magnesium, tryptophan, or L-theanine can help reduce anxiety and stress in cribbers, potentially decreasing the urge to crib.
- Probiotics: Probiotic supplements can support gut health, which is crucial for horses that exhibit cribbing as they may have digestive upset; keeping their digestive system healthy can alleviate some behavioral issues.
- Slow-Feeder Hay Nets: Utilizing slow-feeder hay nets can prolong the time it takes for a horse to consume their hay, keeping them engaged and helping to reduce boredom and stress that may lead to cribbing.
High-quality hay is fundamental as it provides necessary fiber while allowing horses to graze, which mimics their natural feeding behavior and can distract them from cribbing. Pelleted feed can be a more concentrated option, designed to meet nutritional needs without causing rapid consumption, which is often linked to stress-related behaviors in horses.
Calming supplements are beneficial for managing anxiety levels in horses that crib, as reducing stress can minimize the frequency of the behavior. Probiotics are critical for maintaining a healthy digestive tract, as horses that crib might experience gastrointestinal discomfort, further exacerbating their tendency to crib.
Slow-feeder hay nets are a practical solution for extending feeding time and keeping horses occupied, which can significantly reduce the incidence of cribbing by providing mental stimulation and satisfying their natural urge to graze continuously.
How Do Supplements Complement the Diet of Cribbing Horses?
Supplements can play a significant role in supporting the health of horses that crib, helping to mitigate the effects of this behavior.
- Probiotics: Probiotics help to maintain a healthy gut flora, which can be disrupted by stress or behavioral issues. By improving digestion and nutrient absorption, probiotics can support overall health, which is especially important for horses that may be prone to colic or other digestive issues due to cribbing.
- Calming Agents: Supplements containing calming agents such as magnesium, tryptophan, or herbal blends can help reduce anxiety and stress levels in cribbing horses. A calmer horse may be less likely to engage in destructive behaviors, leading to a more balanced lifestyle.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Providing a balanced array of vitamins and minerals can enhance overall nutrition and support bodily functions that may be impacted by cribbing. Ensuring adequate levels of key nutrients can help maintain a strong immune system and promote recovery from any health issues related to the behavior.
- Fiber Supplements: Horses that crib may benefit from additional fiber in their diet to support gut health and provide a source of natural chewing and foraging. Fiber-rich supplements can help keep the horse occupied and reduce boredom, thereby lessening the incidence of cribbing.
- Feed Formulations with High Fat Content: High-fat feeds can be a concentrated source of energy and can help horses feel more satisfied and less anxious. By incorporating these feeds into their diet, it may reduce the compulsion to crib due to hunger or stress.