Compound Horse Feedstuff Market

Compound Horse Feedstuff Market Outlook from 2025 to 2035

The global compound horse feedstuff market is valued at USD 8.9 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6%, reaching USD 13.9 billion by 2035. This industry is experiencing steady expansion driven by increased awareness of equine health, rising horse ownership for both sport and recreational purposes and a growing demand for performance-optimized nutrition across the equestrian industry.

Rising disposable incomes in developing regions and expanding participation in equestrian sports such as show jumping, dressage, and endurance riding are contributing to increasing feed quality expectations. Owners, breeders, and trainers are seeking specialized feed blends tailored to horse activity levels, age, and health status-such as high-fiber, low-starch formulations for digestive health or high-energy performance mixes enriched with amino acids, electrolytes, and antioxidants.

In 2025, performance horses account for approximately 44% of global feedstuff demand, followed by breeding and leisure segments. Feed formats include pellets, textured mixes, and cubes, with a growing share of fortified and medicated variants. Additionally, organic and non-GMO horse feed is gaining traction, especially in Europe and North America, as animal welfare becomes a stronger purchase driver.

Europe remains the largest shareholder with over 36% share due to its robust equestrian sports infrastructure and long-established equine nutrition industry. North America follows closely, with strong commercial breeding and leisure riding sectors. Asia-Pacific is projected to record the fastest CAGR at 5.1%, led by China's and Australia's growing equestrian communities and infrastructure investments.

Feed manufacturers are investing in gut health innovations, slow-energy release carbohydrates, and sustainable protein sources to align with owner concerns around performance, longevity, and ethical nutrition. Digital platforms are also being used for diet customization and subscription-based feed delivery, reflecting shifting preferences toward convenience and personalization.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value
Estimated Global Size in 2025	USD 8.9 Billion
Projected Global Size in 2035	USD 13.9 Billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	4.6%
Leading Regions	Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific
Largest Segment (2025)	Performance Horses (44%)
Fastest-Growing Region	Asia-Pacific (5.1% CAGR)

Summary of Fact.MR Survey Results: Industry Dynamics Based on Stakeholder Perspectives

The compound horse feedstuff market is evolving steadily as owners, breeders, and trainers increasingly seek science-backed, activity-specific nutrition for horses, according to Fact.MR’s survey shows that 85% of stakeholders prioritize feed personalization based on exercise intensity, age, breed, and medical history. Performance blends are expanding rapidly, while breeding and senior care segments are gaining attention due to longevity concerns. Transparency remains a universal demand-78% emphasized non-GMO, antibiotic-free, and clean-label formulations to meet consumer trust expectations and regional compliance standards.

Technology is playing a growing role in the industry, especially in Europe and North America, where computerized feed formulations, app-based ration monitoring, and predictive health-linked feeding systems are gaining adoption. Digestive health innovation is another priority-64% of respondents are experimenting with slow-release starches, encapsulated minerals, and functional fiber to improve nutrient bioavailability and reduce common equine issues like colic and ulcers.

Supply chain complexity and climate variability are ongoing risks. Stakeholders are mitigating these through vertical integration, crop diversification, and long-term sourcing contracts. Looking ahead, feed companies are heavily investing in functional blends, plant-based proteins, and D2C models-including mobile feed planning platforms and personalized nutrition kits.

Regionally, Europe is leading in gut-health-enhanced formulations, North America is expanding delivery partnerships, and Asia-Pacific is scaling access through cost-effective, locally sourced offerings. As compound horse feedstuff becomes more data-driven and welfare-oriented, stakeholders are aligning innovation, sustainability, and digital engagement to capture long-term growth.

Shifts in the Market from 2020 to 2024 and Future Trends 2025 to 2035

From 2020 to 2024, the compound horse feedstuff market exhibited steady growth because of growing awareness related to equine nutrition. Horse caretakers and owners became increasingly aware of the need to offer nutritionally rich feed to horses, particularly with the growth in popularity of equine sporting events and recreational pursuits.

Feed mixes shifted to meet the specific nutritional needs of horses, such as functional additives like prebiotics, probiotics, and fiber for improved digestion and well-being. More and more, the trend was toward premium and specialty feeds since individuals wanted to enhance performance and maximize horses' well-being.

Between 2025 and 2035, the compound horse feedstuff market will expand as pet humanization continues to increase and as the trend reverses to natural, sustainable, non-GMO feeding. There also will be further emphasis on feeding technology innovation in order to drive nutritional profiles and palatability and meet the increasing demand for clean-label diets.

Besides that, the industry will also benefit from innovation in eco-friendly production processes, such as sustainable sourcing of packaging and ingredients. Consumers will continue seeking brands that exercise transparent openness about the quality and origin of their ingredients as traceability and transparency demand increase across the food and animal feed industries.

A Comparative Market Shift Analysis (2020 to 2024 vs. 2025 to 2035)

2020 to 2024	2025 to 2035
Demand-driven growth for well-balanced, high-quality equine feed and nutrition	Sustained growth with a focus on sustainability and innovative feed technology
Increased humanization of horses and focus on performance and health	Increased demand for natural, sustainable, and non-GMO feed options
Functional ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, and fiber are becoming more mainstream	More innovation with clean-label substitutes, sustainable packaging, and enhanced nutritional profiles
Strengthening of regulations and quality standards for horse feed safety	Increased focus on traceability, transparency, and ethical sourcing
Control of North America and Europe in the compound horse feedstuff market	Growth in emerging regions, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America
Improved formulation technologies, e.g., increased nutrient bioavailability	Improved manufacturing processes, sustainable sourcing, and tailored feed formulations
Growing equine sports and recreational activities, high-end feed demand	Shift to sustainable practices, transparency, and innovation in equine health
Balance of feed ingredients in terms of cost, quality, and functionality	Discussing scaling up sustainable practices and addressing the demands of a multigenerational marketplace

Country-wise Analysis

Countries	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
U.S.	5.2%
UK	4.8%
France	4.5%
Germany	4.7%
Italy	4.4%
South Korea	5.0%
Japan	4.6%
China	5.5%
Australia-New Zealand	4.9%

U.S.

The U.S. compound horse feedstuff market is anticipated to advance at 5.2% CAGR between the forecast years. Stimulated by innovation in animal nutrition science and the rising need for premium equine health solutions, the compound horse feedstuff market in the U.S. is on course for massive growth. Increasing knowledge among horse owners about the dietary advantages of custom-made feed solutions is profoundly affecting growth.

In addition, an increasing number of sport and recreational horses create the need for value-added feed formulations that facilitate endurance, strength, and general well-being. The availability of top-class equine feed players and vast distribution networks throughout the U.S. also confirms access.

An effective regulatory environment guarantees quality production standards, which increases consumer trust and stability. Emerging trends in organic and non-GMO horse feed also provide promising opportunities. The convergence of cutting-edge technologies, such as precision feeding and customized nutrition, is likely to increase sales. In general, the U.S. remains in high demand for innovative and scientifically supported horse feedstuff products.

UK

The UK compound horse feedstuff market will grow at 4.8% CAGR over the study period. A strong-rooted horse culture and increased trend towards high-quality horse care products highly support the industry. Growing equestrian sport activities like dressage, show jumping, and eventing raise demand for specialized feed solutions.

Knowledge about the health benefits of well-balanced diets according to particular horse breeds and activities generates substantial interest among horse owners and trainers. There is a well-developed regulatory environment that promotes product safety and innovation.

As there is a significant movement towards organic and sustainable ingredients, feed manufacturers are positioning product lines according to consumer expectations. Increased growth in online distribution channels further eases access and penetration. Research and development investment in improving feed efficacy is a reflection of the competitive industry.

France

France's compound horse feedstuff market is forecasted to develop at 4.5% CAGR throughout the study period. France's historical horse-riding culture and general popularity of using horses for both recreation and sports provide a sound basis for the compound horse feedstuff market. Increased consumer interest in maximizing horse performance and health via scientifically developed feed is driving strong opportunities.

Government subsidies and national equine events underpin the industry for high-quality feed products. Organic and local feed ingredient trends strengthen with eco-conscious consumers. Feed production processes continue to be advanced technologically, resulting in higher nutritional content designed for unique horse requirements. Strategic partnerships between veterinary institutions and feed manufacturers propel product development innovations.

Online platforms increasingly close gaps between end-users and suppliers, expanding reach in the compound horse feedstuff market. Generally, France offers a stable but increasingly dynamic environment for compound horse feedstuff, which is marked by tradition and a high level of animal welfare commitment.

Germany

The German compound horse feedstuff market will grow at 4.7% CAGR over the study period. Germany's diversified horse industry, with a high interest in horse breeding and sport, propels the sales. Heightened consumer awareness of the central role of nutrition in equine health has increased demand for scientifically formulated feed.

Product innovations focused on gut health, joint health, and coat conditioning are in high demand. Stringent quality expectations and environmental sustainability have heightened in Germany and influence feed manufacturing processes positively. A growing segment of horse owners prioritize non-GMO, organic, and environmentally friendly feed options, encouraging diversification in product offerings.

Partnerships between feed producers and veterinary experts promote research-based feed formulations. The expansion of digital sales channels provides greater accessibility, particularly for specialized and premium feed products. Germany's compound horse feedstuff market reflects a blend of tradition, scientific innovation, and environmental stewardship, positioning it for steady and sustainable growth.

Italy

The Italian compound horse feedstuff market will grow at 4.4% CAGR over the forecast period. Italy's lively equestrian culture, aided by recreational and competitive riding events, drives demand for quality compound horse feedstuff. Increasing concern for equine health, along with the need for tailored nutrition plans, is driving considerable traction. Preferential use of Mediterranean feedstuffs such as grains, legumes, and herbal additives underscores regional feeding patterns.

Italian consumers increasingly demand organic certifications and sustainable sourcing of feed products. Active involvement in global equestrian competitions underscores the importance of performance-enhancing feed formulations. Increases in specialized feed categories to combat digestion, stamina, and muscle building are most significant.

Growth in modern retail channels and the internet provides greater availability and education to consumers. Italy's compound horse feedstuff market is set to experience robust growth driven by a mix of cultural heritage, nutritional innovation, and consumer awareness.

South Korea

The South Korean compound horse feedstuff market is likely to expand at 5.0% CAGR over the study period. South Korea's increasing interest in leisure horse riding and equestrian sports is driving demand for high-end horse feed products. Growing disposable incomes and greater awareness of equine well-being favor the adoption of premium feedstuffs. Focus on high-grade nutritional levels to drive horse performance within a competitive environment.

Accelerating urbanization and increases in luxury riding establishments open new pathways for the distribution of the product. Companies specializing in producing animal feeds commit resources to R&D in formulating breed- and activity-specific varieties. South Korea also reflects a robust preference for imported feed products characterized by high-quality standards.

Domestic feed manufacturers cooperating with global brands improve the provision of varied product lines. The trend in South Korea portrays a combination of traditional adoption and modern innovation that supports high growth in the compound horse feedstuff industry in the future.

Japan

The Japanese compound horse feedstuff market will grow at 4.6% CAGR over the study period. Japan's strong affinity for horse culture and increasing involvement in competitive horse sports support the demand for scientifically designed horse feed. With an aging population of horses and specific care needs, there is a rush for nutrition solutions targeting longevity as well as maintenance of health. Japan continuously works on technological advances, pushing the use of precision nutrition methods.

Demand for organic, additive-free, traceable feed ingredients fits the nation's health-oriented consumption culture. Premium global feed brands' import supplementing domestic output enriches diversity in the compound horse feedstuff market. Expansion in equine therapy centers and leisure riding clubs increases the market size for feed items. Direct-to-consumer sales and e-commerce platforms continue to revolutionize accessibility.

China

China's compound horse feedstuff market will grow at a 5.5% CAGR over the study period. China is among the most vibrant and fastest-developing regions, underpinned by growing equestrian sports, recreational riding, and increasing horse ownership among richer populations. Government support for the encouragement of horse sport and the increasing number of professional equestrian training centers push demand for specially formulated feed upward. Chinese purchasers show an enhanced preference for science-based feed ingredients that improve performance, health, and appearance.

Growing investment from international feed names in domestic manufacturing operations drives growth. Trends related to natural materials, functional ingredients, and sustainability are on the rise. Online shopping platforms play a critical role in accessing products in both urban and rural areas. China has shown unprecedented growth opportunities driven by fast-paced urbanization, an increase in disposable incomes, and lifestyle changes toward upscale animal-care goods.

Australia-New Zealand

Australia-New Zealand compound horse feedstuff market will grow at a rate of 4.9% CAGR over the research period. Striking horse breeding traditions in both Australia and New Zealand support firm growth in the compound horse feedstuff market. Increased demand for specialized feeding to meet performance horses, leisure riding, and breeding program needs fuels growth. The region's pasture-based feeding emphasis is supplemented by a growing interest in compound feedstuff to fill nutritional gaps.

Consumer demand shows a very strong pull for natural, non-GMO, and organic feed offerings. Innovations in hydration management, energy optimization, and muscle recovery pick up pace. The growth of direct-to-farm models of sales and online shopping drives penetration into various geographical segments.

Australia-New Zealand's emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices also affects feed production and sourcing strategies. With a balanced mix of traditional practices and current nutritional science, the Australian and New Zealand compound horse feedstuff market is well-poised for steady growth throughout the forecast period.

Segment-wise Analysis

By Form

The Compound Horse Feedstuff Market will be fragmented by Form in 2025, wherein Pellets will take the largest segment at 48.2%, with Crumbles/Cubes following at 32.4%.

The convenience, easy storage, and ability to deliver a well-balanced and consistent nutritional profile make pellets hold the largest share among the forms of horse feedstuff. Horse owners and breeders favor using pellets since they are also easily measured, reduce wastage, and are more digestible for horses.

The compact size and even texture of pellets provide an excellent way to feed and transport, especially in commercial or large-scale farming operations. Leading companies in the sector, such as Cargill, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), and Kent Nutrition Group, are major suppliers of pelletized feed widely used to achieve optimal health and performance for horses, especially in competitive and high-performance sectors like racing and eventing.

The crumbles/cubes segment is much smaller at 32.4% but is still a reasonable proportion of the compound horse feedstuff market. Crumbles and cubes have been used with horses that may have problematic chewing of the pellets or that prefer a more textured feed. These forms are also commonly used for breeding horses and young foals, as they can be broken apart and combined with other ingredients to address particular nutritional needs.

Crumbles and cubes have gained popularity because consumers become focused on less processed or natural feed options and have, therefore, increased their consumption levels. Purina Animal Nutrition and Nutrena manufacture crumble and cube options, thus addressing the various requirements of horse owners, especially where horses are kept for recreational activity and not for competition.

By Ingredient

The Compound Horse Feedstuff Market segmented by ingredient in 2025 has the Cereals at the forefront, with a share dominance of 50.6%, while the Supplement segment holds a 26.1% share.

The largest share is attributed to the cereals segment, which results from high nutritional value and energy conferred by grains such as oats, corn, and barley. The active ingredients used in horse feed furnish much-needed carbohydrates, fiber, and protein energy for muscle development and maintenance of overall health. Cereal-based feeds are economical and easy to digest, making them popular among horse owners, especially those whose horses are under daily work and training.

Companies such as Cargill, ADM, and Kent Nutrition Group are some of the key players supplying cereal-based ingredients for horse feed, ensuring that the feed provides balanced nutrition for recreational horses as well as those bred for competition. In addition, the increasing preference for energy-dense and high-quality ingredients to meet the demands of working horses contributes to the cereal-dominating feature.

The supplements segment, taking a 26.1% share, is growing in importance as horse owners become increasingly intent on providing specialized nutrition for their horses. These include vitamins, minerals, amino acids and probiotics, which are administered to horses to assist in supporting health, performance and recovery. These ingredients are most critical for horses under intense training or competition, as they help maintain bone health, joint functioning, and general well-being.

The recent trend towards more targeted and tailored nutrition for horses has spurred the demand for certain supplements that address needs such as digestive health, coat condition, and muscle recovery. Some of the top brands, including Purina Animal Nutrition and Nutrena, provide multiple supplement types to satisfy different dietary needs in the equine world.

Competitive Outlook

The compound horse feedstuff market continues to be characterized by a high degree of regional specialization, strategic brand loyalty, and an increasing trend toward performance-oriented and specialized equine nutrition. Land O'Lakes' vertically integrated agribusiness basis supports Purina Animal Nutrition LLC's dominant position in North America. Its mission of continuously growing the Purina® Strategy and Ultium® lines, developed with precise nutrient profiles for high-performance sport horses and aging equines, is a fundamental driver.

A Mars, Inc. subsidiary, Spillers Horse Feeds occupies a notable portion within the UK and Europe, creating condition-specific diets based on equine nutrition studies and veterinary collaboration. Likewise, GAIN Equine Nutrition, also under Glanbia, has positioned itself in European racing and breeding circuits with easy access to a quality-assured feed mill backed by good formulation R&D.

Bailey's Horse Feeds and Allen & Page focus on non-GM and organic feed lines, increasing appeal among health-conscious equestrian customers in the UK. Cavalor's concentration lies in premium feeds for competition horses and is well-established in continental Europe, North America and Asia.

Meanwhile, fronted by companies in the USA such as Nutrena Animal Feeds and Triple Crown Horse Feeds, the offer into different segments centered on options for high-fat, high-fiber, or low-starch alternatives. Moderate fragmentation remains, with smaller players like Omega Fields, Big V Feeds, and West Feeds utilizing regional loyalty and specialized offers.

Market Share Analysis by Company

Company	Estimated Market Share (%)
Purina Animal Nutrition LLC	16-20%
Spillers Horse Feeds	13-16%
GAIN Equine Nutrition	10-13%
Nutrena Animal Feeds	8-11%
Cavalor	6-9%
Other Players	32-38%

Key Company Insights

The compound horse feedstuff market is led by Purina Animal Nutrition LLC, with an estimated share of 16-20%. The company caters to recreational and competitive markets through a broad portfolio comprising Omolene®, Ultium®, and Impact® series products. Purina's visibility across the U.S. and its gradual penetration into other overseas arenas are sustained by strategic alliances with breeders and organizers of events, along with stringent quality controls.

Spillers Horse Feeds holds a 13-16% share globally, with particular strength in the UK and parts of Europe. Its working relationship with the WALTHAM™ Equine Studies Group adds to its credibility with veterinary professionals and equine nutritionists. GAIN Equine Nutrition enjoys a 10-13% share serving Ireland and mainland Europe with premium racing, stud as well and leisure feeds while continuing to emphasize quality control through its UFAS-accredited production facilities.

Nutrena Animal Feeds has an 8-11% share and is known for balancing affordability with performance through its SafeChoice®, ProForce®, and Empower® lines. Cavalor, at an estimated 6-9% share, remains the preferred premium brand for elite competitors in dressage and show jumping. Sport-specific formulations and research partnerships with veterinary universities are part of its global strategy.

Key Players

• Purina Animal Nutrition LLC
• Spillers Horse Feeds
• GAIN Equine Nutrition
• Nutrena Animal Feeds
• Bailey’s Horse Feeds
• Farmvet
• Horse Tech Inc.
• Epol
• Omega Fields
• Cavalor
• Target Feeds Ltd.
• Big V Feeds
• Triple Crown Horse Feeds
• Allen & Page
• Dumoulin
• West Feeds

Segmentation

• By Form :

  • Pellets
  • Crumbles/Cubes
  • Powder/Mash

• By Ingredient :

  • Cereals
  • Supplements
  • Cakes/Meals
  • Others

• By Nutrition :

  • High Fiber
  • Low Starch
  • High Protein
  • High Fat

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia & Pacific
  • Middle East and Africa