Winter feeding Q&A
What does my horse need nutrition-wise during winter?
FEEDING horses during winter can pose a challenge for horse owners for a variety of different reasons, as Saracen Horse Feeds advisor Lucy Woods explains.
“Colder temperatures can impact the amount of good-quality grazing available and a consequent reduction in turnout leads to the horse being stabled for increased periods,” says Lucy. “Forage should still form the basis of any horse’s diet. Feeding ad-lib forage will ensure the horse maintains good digestive health and that behavioural needs are met.
“Due to the nature of the horse’s digestive system, forage also helps to act as an ‘internal radiator’ and the fermentation of forage will help to keep the horse warm.”
The change from grass to hay or haylage during winter can often result in weight loss.
“This is because conserved forages are less digestible than fresh pasture and some horses can
