Let’s talk about winter care for horses. Cold weather presents horses with some specific nutritional and management demands. As winter approaches, it is a good idea to evaluate horses! Look at their housing, and feeding programs. Ensure they get through the cold weather in good shape.
Increase in feed energy for extra body heat. Horses will require an estimated 15–20% more calories for each 10° F the ambient temperature falls below their critical temperature. It is important that horses come into winter carrying enough body condition. The additional body fat serves as insulation and energy reserves.
Consider these tips for your winter feeding program:
- Adjust for Cold: Thin horses or those with short hair may need greater increases in dietary intake to maintain normal body temperature.
- Balance the Diet: The best option for the horse year-round is a nutritionally balanced diet of good quality hay and a high-quality, well fortified commercial feed.
- Don’t Rely Just on Corn: While corn has more energy per pound than oats, corn or oats alone can provide adequate calories but not adequate protein, vitamin or minerals.
Monitoring water intake is another very important consideration during winter weather.
- Prevent Impaction: Increased hay intake combined with decreased water intake contributes to the risk of impaction colic.
- Encourage Drinking: In cold weather, water should be kept fresh and free of ice to insure adequate intake. Adding salt to the feed may stimulate water consumption.
Don’t forget to visit your local Steinhauser’s for your equine needs!
By Karen E. Davison, Ph.D., Managing Equine Nutritionist, Purina Mills, LLC