Let’s face it, horses are expensive. No matter how much you plan ahead and budget for expenses, there’s always the chance of an unexpected vet bill or a hike in feed and hay prices. There are, however, some routine equine expenses that you can expect and somewhat prepare for.

In last week’s online poll, we asked our readers about the most expensive items they expect to purchase for their horse this year. More than 800 people responded and we’ve tallied the results!

Of the 832 respondents, 285 (34%) said they expect feed and hay to be the most expensive purchase for their horse, while 195 individuals (23%) predict medications or veterinary treatment to be their expensive purchases. Another 107 respondents (13%) say a saddle or tack will be at the top of their equine expenses this year, and 84 people (10%) expect to purchase a horse trailer. Some 46 respondents (6%) indicated they expect to purchase a pickup or tow vehicle this year, and 43 people (5%) plan to have farm equipment expenses. The remaining 72 respondents (9%) said they expect to have other equine expenses that will be the most expensive.