Top Tips on the importance of additional winter forage

When should I provide additional winter forage?

• In times of wet weather, leading to poached fields, mud, and short/limited grass availability.
• When signs of weight loss, decreased energy, or when environmental conditions (cold, wind, snow, or wet weather) increase their calorific needs.
• Weigh tape regularly if you horse tends to drop weight at this time of year, and increase forage provision when necessary.
• You may notice fence chewing due to boredom or lack of grass.

Why should I provide additional winter forage?

• Fibre should ALWAYS form the bulk and base of the diet, it is the most important aspect of your horses diet to get right.
• It supplies some essential nutrients and fibre, supporting improved gut health, providing energy and warmth through fermentation in the hindgut.
• As grass growth slows at this time of year, nutrient content is depleted, additional provision should be provided from hay and a feed balancer.
• Additional forage discourages weight loss and helps to maintain muscle and healthy (not excess) fat reserves during the colder weather.
• Consistent forage provision reduces the risk of colic and ulcers by ensuring a steady flow of food through the digestive system.
• Regular access to forage reduces boredom and stress-related behaviours like cribbing or wood chewing.

How do I provide additional winter forage?

• Safely, with hay in the field - Remember to always have an additional pile to the number of horses in the paddock, this reduces the chance of injury and prevents horses missing out on their provision. 
• Provide additional forage at approximately 1.5–2% of their body weight (this can be higher if your horse tends to lose weight) in dry matter daily. For the average 500kg horse this is approx. 9kg of hay and grazing per day. 

What else should I provide?

A feed balancer is essential to include at this time of year especially as forage provision will be falling well short in the provision of daily vitamins, minerals and nutrients your horse needs to support their daily health.

OTHER TOP TIPS

• Analyse forage for nutrient content where possible.
• Regularly assess each horse's weight and adjust feeding accordingly.
• Purchase hay in advance for peace of mind and to avoid shortages or price increases during the winter months.