Grazing muzzles reduce the amount of forage consumed by horses and can be useful for managing insulin resistant and laminitic horses and ponies at pasture. They also have a role in slowing horses that consume feed too quickly and have a tendency to choke.

There are many different models of grazing muzzle, varying in materials and design.

Grazing muzzles must be fit properly. The straps should not be too loose, because they can catch a hoof or tree branch. Straps should be constructed of breakaway material in case the muzzle become caught on something.

A grazing muzzle fit too tight or that is too small will rub the hair off the horse's muzzle or prevent a horse from opening its mouth fully and chewing normally.

It is best to allow horses to gradually become accustomed to wearing one, by applying it increasing lengths of time over consecutive days. Horses gradually increase their speed at eating through a grazing muzzle.

Monitor a horse's water consumption as they become accustomed to the muzzle to ensure that they understand it can drink with the muzzle on.

A recent study suggests that a grazing muzzle can slow the intake of pelleted feeds too, thereby potentially reducing the risk of choke (esophageal obstruction) in horses that have a tendency toward it.