Winter is on its way, bringing unique challenges for horse owners. Cold weather doesn’t just mean shorter days and extra layers; it also means adjusting your horse’s diet and management to keep them healthy and thriving. Preparing early can make all the difference.
Why Winter Nutrition Matters
Horses’ nutritional needs change as temperatures drop. Energy demands increase, hydration becomes more challenging, and vitamin/mineral intake shifts as pasture disappears. Understanding these changes is the first step to a successful winter.
Forage First: Fuel and Warmth
Hay is more than a staple—it’s the foundation of winter nutrition. Beyond providing energy, the fermentation of fiber in the hindgut produces internal heat (a process known as “shivering-free thermogenesis”), which helps your horse stay warm.
This makes hay not only a source of calories but also your horse’s natural “heater” in the colder months.
But not all hay is created equal. Quality, maturity, and storage conditions can dramatically affect its nutritional value. Dusty, stemmy, or poorly stored hay may fill the belly, but it won’t provide the same energy and health benefits. That’s why evaluating hay quality and balancing it with other feeds or supplements is so important as we head into winter.
Some questions to ask yourself as you prepare: How can I monitor body condition through winter to be sure my forage plan is working? Do I have enough good-quality hay to last through the season? Is my hay providing the right balance of nutrients, or will my horse need additional support?
Energy Needs in the Cold
How Cold Impacts Caloric Demand
Horses burn more calories to stay warm, especially in freezing temperatures. Research shows that a 500 kg horse may need 2.5% more digestible energy for every degree below -15 °C.
Which Horses Need Extra Support
Thin horses, seniors, or those without access to shelter often need more feed adjustments. Monitoring body condition regularly helps you respond quickly to changes.
Hydration and Colic Prevention
Encouraging Water Intake
Cold weather can reduce water intake, which increases the risk of impaction colic. Please make sure that you have access to clean, unfrozen water. Horses are much more likely to drink when the water is slightly warmed (around 7–18 °C / 45–65 °F), and heated buckets or insulated troughs can make a big difference. Placing water sources in familiar, accessible spots also encourages drinking. Monitoring daily water intake—by checking bucket levels or flow meters—is an easy habit that can alert you early if your horse isn’t drinking enough.
Ask yourself: How will I track my horse’s water intake this winter? Does my horse have free-choice access to water 24/7, even in freezing weather? Could adding warm water or extra salt help encourage better hydration?
Electrolytes and Salt Strategies
Offering lukewarm water encourages drinking, and adding salt or electrolytes can help maintain hydration.
Vitamins and Minerals in Winter
Common Deficiencies Without Pasture
With reduced access to pasture, horses often miss out on key vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids.
Smart Supplement Solutions
A well-chosen ration balancer or targeted supplement helps fill nutritional gaps.
Every Horse is Different: Key Factors to Watch
Every horse is unique. Age, coat thickness, body condition, breed, and use of blankets all affect how much energy and nutrition they need to stay warm. Keep an eye on each horse individually rather than relying on a “one-size-fits-all” plan.
Planning Ahead for Winter Success
Don’t wait for the first snowstorm to get ready. Think about hay supply, feed storage, water management, and shelter before winter hits. Anticipating challenges means less stress for you—and a healthier, happier horse.
Join Our Winter Ready Workshop
Want to learn more?
In our upcoming Winter Ready Workshop, we’ll explore:
- How to assess hay quality and storage
- Practical strategies to track body condition
- Smart supplement choices for winter
- Hydration hacks to prevent colic
Your horse’s health this winter starts with preparation. Let’s make sure you’re ready!
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