Höveler Western Sport vs a Low-Fat Feed: 5 Differences in How the Energy Arrives

Quick answer: Höveler Western Sport carries 6.10% crude fat with 12.19 MJ/kg digestible energy in a high-energy, low-grain muesli — $37.99 for a 44 lb bag, designed for medium to intensively trained western horses. Last checked: September 2026.

Fat has an unfair reputation at the feed store. For a horse in hard training, dietary fat is one of the best energy sources there is — dense, steady, and easy on the digestive system. Here are five differences between Western Sport and a feed built low in fat.

1. 6.10% fat from named oil sources

Crude fat is 6.10%, contributed by sunflower oil and linseed oil, both listed in the formula. A low-fat feed removes that energy source — and then the horse has to make up the calories somewhere, usually through starch. Named oils are energy you can put a name to.

Who this is for: horses whose condition slips as the training weeks stack up.

2. Calories that come with the bag, not a second purchase

Digestible energy is 12.19 MJ/kg. Low-fat feeds swap energy density for a number on the label, and the missing calories get added back with oil or extra scoops. Western Sport builds the energy density into the formula from the start.

The benefit: 12.19 MJ/kg without adding anything to the bucket.

3. Fat and fiber work together

Crude fiber is 16.7%, anchored by 28% alfalfa. Energy from fiber comes in gradually, and the 6.10% fat adds density on top. The combination is what "high-energy, low-grain" means in practice — fuel without relying on starch, which is held at 18.30%.

Who this is for: riders who want consistent output through long rides rather than a short flame.

4. The calories support muscle, not just weight

Alongside the energy, the formula provides 14.0% crude protein and 107 g/kg digestible crude protein, with 28% alfalfa included for muscle development and peak performance. Condition gained on a low-fat, low-protein feed tends to be unspecified; here the profile is aimed at working muscle.

The benefit: weight that lands where training wants it.

5. A trial with a way back

The 44 lb bag is $37.99, and the 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee covers the switch from your current feed. Höveler has made horse feed since 1905 — over 120 years of expertise — made in Germany.

Who this is for: anyone who has been burned before by a feed that promised to build condition.

How to feed it

Daily amounts per 220 lb (100 kg) body weight:

Work levelDaily rate per 220 lb (100 kg) Light work0.55 lb (250 g) Medium work0.88 lb (400 g) Heavy workNot listed — the page says to adjust to condition and training intensity, with adequate forage always provided

The page gives no heavy-work rate. Adjust to condition and training intensity, and always provide adequate https://sites.google.com/view/grain-free-horse-feed/ forage. Key specs at a glance: 14.0% crude protein, 6.10% crude fat, 16.7% crude fiber, 18.30% starch, 5.30% sugar, 12.19 MJ/kg digestible energy. Begin with bifid's Feeding Calculator.

Frequently asked questions

Will 6.10% fat make my horse hot?

Fat is a quiet energy source — it fuels work without the spikes associated with high-starch feeding. Western Sport's starch is 18.30% and sugar 5.30%, with much of its energy coming from 16.7% fiber and the 6.10% fat itself.

Is fat good for horses in training?

Dietary fat is a concentrated energy source, and Western Sport includes both named oils — sunflower oil and linseed oil — in its formula alongside 28% alfalfa. For horses in medium to intensive training, stated fat at 6.10% helps the ration deliver enough calories in a normal-sized meal.

My horse needs to gain weight — is this the right feed?

It is designed as a high-energy feed for medium to intensively trained western horses: 12.19 MJ/kg digestible energy and 14.0% crude protein. Feed it over a base of adequate forage, and adjust the rate to condition. The 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee covers the trial.

What about a horse that holds weight too easily?

For easy keepers, the relevant numbers are the feeding rates — 0.55 lb (250 g) per 220 lb (100 kg) at light work — and the stated starch (18.30%) and sugar (5.30%). Lower the rate to condition while keeping forage constant, and check with your vet.

Where can I compare it with other Höveler feeds?

The Höveler range is listed on bifid's store, and the 24/7 licensed vet team can help you compare the analyses side by side.