Preparing your horse for winter

As the winter season approaches, horse owners must consider adjusting their horse's diet to account for the changes in grass quality and quantity. With the arrival of winter, there is a decrease in the calorie content of the grass due to changes in temperature and rainfall patterns. This shift in grass quality can put some horses at risk for laminitis, making it crucial for horse owners to monitor their horses' dietary needs closely.

Easy keepers, horses that have a tendency to maintain or gain weight easily, may enter the winter season with some extra weight. For easy keepers, ration balancers can be an excellent option as they provide all the essential nutrients while containing fewer calories, helping to manage their weight effectively.

On the other hand, hard keepers and horses that struggle to maintain weight may face challenges during the winter months due to reduced grass and pasture availability. Horses tend to burn 10%-30% more calories during the winter, depending on weather conditions. It is advisable to increase their forage intake rather than relying on increased grain intake to meet their calorie requirements. For hard keepers with a calorie deficit, a high-fat, high-fiber grain would be the most suitable option to help maintain their energy levels.

In addition to dietary adjustments, ensuring proper hydration is crucial for horses during the winter months. While horses typically drink 5-10 gallons of water per day, this intake can decrease by 14% during the winter. To address this, horse owners should ensure that their horses have access to an adequate and consistent water supply. Adding a salt block or electrolytes to their diet can also be beneficial in encouraging adequate water consumption and maintaining proper hydration levels.

By understanding and addressing these dietary considerations, horse owners can help their equine companions stay healthy and well-nourished throughout the winter season.