Winter is a time of change for us all, including our equine friends. Without the benefit of an indoor arena many of us find ourselves riding less during the winter months, and so the energy needs of our horse may also change. However, the need for basic good nutrition and care never changes, and requires a heightened awareness of our attention and concern as the days get colder.
Monitoring your horse’s water consumption during the colder months is especially important. Horses tend to drink less during this type of weather than they do in the hot summer months or when they are more active. Add to that fact their reluctance to drink icy cold water and the stage is set for potential colic problems. It is very important to make certain that your horse is consuming an adequate amount of fresh, clean water every day. Horses prefer to drink water at a temperature between 45 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Tank heaters, or topping off the water bucket with some hot water, will “take the chill off” just enough so that your horse will be more encouraged to drink. (Hint: If you don’t want to pack a bucket of hot water from your house to the barn, purchase an electric kettle that you can keep in your feed room to heat water right on the spot.)
Always make certain that salt is available for your horse as well. In addition to being a dietary requirement, salt encourages water consumption. Most commonly, either a white or iodized salt block is offered. Locate it near the water source and in an area which is exposed to moisture. Although it may dissipate more quickly than if kept under cover, moisture helps to break it down somewhat making it more easily consumed.
The next consideration is forage. The type of hay (grass, alfalfa or local) is usually not as important as making sure that it is dust, mold, and weed-free. If possible, purchase enough of the same hay to make it through the winter months. It should be kept dry under cover and elevated off the ground to prevent it from molding. When the temperature outside drops, don’t hesitate to toss your horse a bit more hay to help generate energy for body heat. Forage also stimulates your horse’s water intake. Grass hay makes an excellent choice for supplementing the diet during colder months as it is less caloric than alfalfa.
Grain concentrates provide energy and nutrients that can not be provided for from forage alone, and would otherwise be lacking in the horse’s diet. A selection of commercially prepared, processed grain products are available which will properly balance your horse’s daily ration with necessary energy, vitamins, and minerals to maintain normal body functions. The specific product which you select to feed, and that will most benefit your horse, should be determined by the type of forage being fed and, the age, lifestyle and activity level of the horse. Remember, growing horses and senior horses have significantly different dietary requirements than those of the adult horse. Horses over the age of thirteen may require a greater level of care during the colder winter months. Be alert to those individuals who need a higher energy (more caloric) diet in order to maintain good body condition, and also to those who might benefit from nutraceutical supplementation.
Autumn is a good time of the year to have your veterinarian check your horse’s dental condition and to review their parasite control program. Depending upon your specific geographical location and farm management practices, your DVM may recommend a rotation of your deworming products or, possibly, a daily deworming program. Not only are parasites the leading cause of colic, but they rob your horse of nutrition. By incorporating good parasite control into your horse’s wellness program, you reduce the risk of colic and maximize your feed dollar!
This is also when to prepare suitable shelter for your horse giving them adequate refuge from nasty winter weather. Determine the direction of incoming storms so that your shelter is properly positioned to offer maximum protection. Check and repair fencing, gates, and pasture areas. Winter blankets should also be cleaned, repaired, or replaced.
By preparing now for the colder, wet winter season ahead, and keeping a constant, watchful eye on the wellness of your horse, you are fulfilling your responsibility as a horse owner. Your daily reward is your horse’s continued health and happiness!
Copyright © 2008 The NW Horse Source, LLC
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