Feeding the Mixed Herd: Forage Options for Horses, Goats, Pigs, and More

November 12, 2025 by Kelly Vineyard, MS, PhD EquiVine PhD Nutrition

Picture a crisp morning on the farm at feeding time: the horses are nickering, the goats are climbing anything and everything, and the pigs are lobbying for breakfast. It’s a chaotic yet heartwarming chorus of hungry enthusiasm. Your primary goal is to feed everyone well while providing nutrition that’s safe, satisfying, and suitable for every mouth on the farm.

Finding a forage that works across multiple species isn’t easy. Horses need quality forage that supplies fiber without excess sugar, goats thrive on variety and browse, and pigs need roughage but also require some concentrate. That’s where Standlee’s premium forage products, including Timothy Mini Cubes, step in. They serve as a consistent and high-quality forage base for mixed herds. Feeding cubes, pellets, and chopped forage reduces waste and the bags are easy to store, making them a convenient and versatile addition to any mixed herd feeding program.

Understanding Mixed Herd Nutrition

Horses, goats, and pigs may share the same barnyard, but their digestive systems are worlds apart. Horses are hindgut fermenters, relying on a steady flow of high-quality fiber to keep their digestive systems happy. Goats are ruminants, meaning they have a four-chambered stomach designed to extract nutrients from fibrous plants. Pigs, on the other hand, are omnivores that still benefit from some fiber for gut health, but their energy and amino acid needs are better met by feeding concentrates than hay.

No matter what the species, forage forms the foundation of most of the barn family’s ration. The key is choosing clean, dust-free, and nutritionally consistent forage that reduces guesswork. Not every hay is safe for every animal, but with Standlee Forage products, you can rely on consistency and quality that is appropriate for the unique needs of horses, goats, pigs, and even other barnyard companions like llamas and cattle.

Smart Forage Options for a Mixed Herd

Timothy Mini Cubes: Small Size, Big Versatility

When feeding a barnyard family, Standlee Timothy Mini Cubes are easy to portion for different sized mouths, simple to soak, and blend well with other feeds. These smaller forage cubes suit horses, goats, llamas, cattle, and even small companions like mini donkeys, which makes them a great shared base for mixed herd feeding. They’re dust-free, consistent, and create less waste, and the “mini cube advantage” means that they are easier to chew while delivering uniform nutrition.

Alfalfa and Timothy Blends

For animals that need a little extra energy, such as pregnant goats, growing pigs, or lactating mares, Standlee Alfalfa-Timothy forage blends (cubed, chopped, or pelleted) provide a balanced boost. Alfalfa offers higher protein and calcium, while timothy contributes fiber for satiety digestive health. Together, they create a versatile forage base that keeps everyone, from the easy-keeping pony to your hungry herd queen, in good condition year-round.

Compressed and Bagged Forage Bales

Clean, compact, and convenient, Standlee’s compressed and bagged forage bales make feeding easier during the busy or chilly seasons. They store neatly in a tack room, resist mold and dust, and provide the consistency your animals rely on. Whether you’re feeding indoors for winter or need to haul hay for a weekend show, bagged forage means quality you can trust every time you open a bale.

Seasonal Feeding Tips for Mixed Herds

When the weather turns cold and pasture declines, your animals dependance on stored forage increases. Transition gradually to avoid digestive upset and consider soaking cubes and pellets in warm water to add hydration during the dry winter months.

Keep an eye on body condition, as goats and pigs can pack on pounds quickly, while horses may need extra calories to remain at a healthy weight during colder weather. Storing forage inside a dry barn extends freshness and prevents waste, helping your herd (and your wallet) through the winter season.

Remember: safe, consistent forage is the foundation of good digestive health for every species, no matter how diverse your menagerie may be.

Find the Perfect Fit for Every Member of Your Barnyard Family

Whether you’re feeding a horse with refined taste, a goat with climbing ambitions, or an opinionated pig, Standlee’s premium forage options can help to bring harmony back to mealtime and keep your mixed herd thriving all year long.

Explore Standlee’s premium forage options today and find the perfect fit for every member of your barnyard family.