Advice on Feed and Supplements for Your Horse's Seasonal Health

With autumn in full swing and winter approaching, the seasonal changes can have an impact on your horse’s health and wellbeing. The cold and wet conditions call for adjustments to their feeding plan to keep them strong and healthy. This blog post will give you advice on seasonal feeds and supplements to help your horse get through the cold months feeling fit and energetic!

1. Adjust Energy Needs Based on Activity and Temperature

During the colder months, horses often need extra energy to maintain their body temperature, especially when they are outside. At the same time, you may be training less intensively, which also affects their energy needs.

Advice :

  • More roughage : Offer extra hay or grass, as roughage generates heat during digestion. This is a natural way to keep your horse warm without adding unnecessary sugars or starches.
  • Supplementary feeding in cold weather : If you notice your horse losing weight due to the cold, you may consider supplementing a small portion of the ration with energy-rich feed, such as alfalfa or a limited number of grains.

2. Pay Attention to the Health of the Immune System

Due to the cold and changing weather conditions, horses are more susceptible to colds and other seasonal ailments. Supplements that support the immune system can help with this.

Recommended supplements :

  • Vitamin C and E : These antioxidants help strengthen the immune system and protect against seasonal stress.
  • Echinacea : A natural herbal supplement that may support the immune system.
  • Probiotics : If your horse suffers from seasonal stress, probiotics can help keep the intestinal flora healthy, which has a positive effect on the overall resistance.

3. Monitor Joint Health

In the colder months, stiffer joints can become a problem, especially for older horses or horses prone to arthritis. Joint support supplements can help keep your horse supple and comfortable during exercise.

Recommended supplements :

  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin : These substances help maintain the cartilage structure and reduce stiffness in the joints.
  • MSM : This is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help with painful joints.
  • Omega 3 fatty acids : These have an anti-inflammatory effect and can improve mobility and joint health.

4. Increase Hydration and Salt Intake

It is important to monitor your horse’s hydration during the fall and winter months when horses sometimes drink less. This can lead to dehydration or even colic. Make sure your horse is getting enough water and consider adding extra electrolytes or salt to help maintain hydration.

Tips :

  • Lukewarm water : Horses drink more often when the water is at a comfortable temperature. Try to offer lukewarm water on cold days.
  • Electrolytes or salt blocks : Give your horse a salt block in the stable or add electrolytes to the feed if they spend a lot of time outside in the rain or cold.

5. Supports a Healthy Coat and Skin

In the fall and winter, horses grow a thick winter coat, but this also makes the skin more susceptible to tangles, chafing and dry patches. Supplements can help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Recommended supplements :

  • Biotin and zinc : These contribute to a strong coat structure and healthy hooves.
  • Linseed oil : Contains omega 3 fatty acids that ensure a shiny coat and healthy skin.
  • Vitamins : Vitamins A and E are essential for skin and coat health and can sometimes provide some extra support in the colder months.

6. Keep Digestion Healthy

Changes in season and diet can affect your horse's digestion, especially when increasing hay rations. Healthy digestion supports your horse's overall health and well-being.

Recommended supplements :

  • Probiotics and prebiotics : Support intestinal flora, which is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.
  • Psyllium fibres : When your horse grazes on sandy surfaces, psyllium can help to remove any ingested sand and prevent colic.

Conclusion
Adjusting your horse’s diet to suit the seasonal conditions can make a huge difference to their wellbeing during the autumn and winter months. By paying extra attention to their energy needs, immune system and joint health, you can keep your horse fit and strong. Always consult your vet or nutritionist before making any major changes to their diet to ensure your horse is getting everything it needs to stay healthy and happy throughout the seasons.

Question to the readers : What supplements or dietary adjustments do you use for your horse during the fall and winter? Share your experiences and tips in the comments!

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