Hands-On Horse Research: What Is a Feed Preference Trial and How Is It Conducted?

The most nutrient-dense feedstuffs are not always the tastiest to horse. In order to boost palatability, flavorings are sometimes added to concentrates and supplements. To determine which flavors are well received by horses, feed preference trials are conducted.

During a feed preference trial, all external factors that may affect decision-making are removed or minimized as much as possible. Two buckets of the same color and construction are used to avoid preference based on visual cues. Bucket positions are alternated daily to prevent location preference, and buckets are hung on a different wall from where the horse normally eats its feed.

One kilogram (2.2 pounds) of flavored or unflavored feed is placed in each bucket. Horses are then given access to the buckets for five minutes. When the five-minute period is over, the buckets are removed from the stall and the feed in each bucket is weighed.

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