Feeding to the Seasons /Conditions

Drought Feeding

Feeding a horse is usually the largest cost of ownership – and never more so than in times of drought. When the grass has browned off – or completely gone - availability and price are the deciders when it comes to what to feed! With a little planning and a knowledge of how to construct a diet with alternative or unusual feedstuffs, it is possible to provide a pretty wellbalanced diet. In drought years, good quality forage may be too expensive or unavailable. So let’s look at the safety and efficacy of options for feeds not traditionally fed to horses.

SPRING FEEDING AND PASTURES

Most plants increase their growth in spring — photosynthesis ramps up when sunshine increases. Plants are sugar factories - photosynthesis produces carbohydrates (CHO) which promotes growth. Horses become sleek and the need to feed is reduced – at last feeding costs go down! Great for the budget and great for horses – except those at risk of insulin resistance and prone to laminitis! And although we recognise many, many breeds of pony – there are really only 2 groups: those that have foundered and those that are going to founder.

WINTER FEEDING

Cooler weather makes winter a favourite time for horses – no flies and midges or itchy sweating just running free and soaking up the winter sun!

Cool temperatures mean less stress — and more time in the ‘thermoneutral zone’ (TNZ), the temperature range in which horses do not need to sweat or shiver. The TNZ varies with age, gender, breed, weather, exercise and feed.

HORSES IN THE COLD OF WINTER

The conversation of rugging horses will always divide a group, some believe it a must and others are adamant it’s unnecessary. And whilst the argument that horses have survived for millions of years without them has merit, like most topics involving humans interacting with horses, it is important to take all variables into account for each individual.