Winter Feeding for Horses: Finding Balance in a Season of Extremes
As the cold sets in, we’re seeing two very different realities play out across the country: in some areas, it’s relentlessly wet—paddocks are mushy, rugs are never quite dry, and we’re dealing with hooves that never seem to get a break. Meanwhile, other regions are crying out for rain, with dry pastures, dusty winds, and limited feed options.
No matter where you are, one thing is certain: winter feeding isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. But with a bit of planning and some honest talk about what your horse really needs, you can keep them healthy, happy, and nutritionally supported right through to spring.
When Pastures Drop Off—What Then?
Winter pasture quality takes a hit, no matter the rainfall. In drought-affected areas, the green pick is long gone, and in the wetter regions, overgrazed and waterlogged paddocks aren’t faring much better. Either way, your horse is likely relying heavily on hay to meet their daily forage needs.
A good rule of thumb is to feed 1.5–2% of your horse’s body weight in forage per day. If pasture isn’t providing that, hay needs to step in—and not all hay is created equal.
Let’s talk hay options:
Grass Hay (Rhodes, Prairie, Teff, Native mixes):
Generally lower in sugar and starch compared to cereal hays, making them a good base for most horses, including those prone to metabolic issues. That said, Teff hay in particular can be variable—it can test quite low in sugar, but not always.Lucerne (Alfalfa):
High in protein and calcium, it’s great for horses needing condition or those in work. It also has a natural buffering effect in the stomach, which is helpful for horses prone to ulcers. But for laminitic horses, it needs to be balanced carefully in the diet due to its richness.Cereal Hay (Oaten, Wheaten, Barley):
These are often very palatable and can work well for putting weight on. However, they’re typically higher in sugar and starch, which can be risky for laminitic or insulin-resistant horses.
Here’s the important bit: You can’t tell sugar content just by looking at hay. The colour, smell, and even the plant type don’t tell the full story. The only way to know the non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) levels—that’s sugar and starch—is to have your hay tested.
For horses with EMS, PPID (Cushing’s), or a history of laminitis, it’s critical to keep NSC levels under 10–12%. If you’re unsure, it’s safest to soak the hay before feeding (for 30–60 minutes in cold water) to help reduce sugar content until test results can confirm suitability.
When in doubt, ask for a hay analysis or get it tested yourself—it’s a small investment that can save you big on vet bills and peace of mind.
Navigating the Feed Marketing Maze
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed standing in the feed aisle in winter—especially when bags promise topline, energy, gut support, and immunity… all in one scoop. But remember, feeds are designed to complement forage, not replace it. And not every horse needs a hard feed.
A few things to keep in mind:
Feeds are often sold on emotion. Clever marketing taps into our desire to do the best for our horses. Stick to your horse’s needs, not your feed store’s display signage.
Look past the label. Ingredients like “super fibres” or “digestive support blends” sound great, but check what they actually include. Sometimes it’s just beet pulp or a pinch of prebiotic.
More isn’t always better. Doubling up on supplements hidden in feeds can lead to imbalances or over-supplementation.
A balanced diet doesn’t need to be complicated—but it does need to be tailored.
Supporting Gut Health in Tough Conditions
Extreme weather—whether wet and muddy or dry and dusty—can wreak havoc on a horse’s gut. Stress, reduced movement, and changes in routine all play a part.
Here’s what helps:
Consistent forage intake: Keeps the gut moving and buffers stomach acid.
Colostrum: Yes, it’s not just for foals. Bovine colostrum supports immunity and gut lining repair, and can be especially useful in horses prone to ulcers or those stressed by environmental changes.
Electrolytes: Even in cold weather, horses lose salts. Ensure they’re hydrated, especially if they’re not keen drinkers.
Prebiotics and yeast: A good boost for hindgut health, particularly when diet changes or stressors are in play.
Every Horse is Different—And That’s Where We Come In
Whether you’re battling mud, managing a hard keeper in a drought, or just trying to figure out if that new feed you saw online is actually worth the money—getting a second opinion can make all the difference.
At Statera Equine, we don’t do cookie-cutter advice. We look at the full picture: your horse, your pasture, your goals, and your budget. If you’re not sure your current feeding plan is working, or you just want some clarity in the chaos of winter feeding, we’re here to help.
👉 Book an online consultation today and let’s build a smart, simple plan to get your horse through winter in their best shape yet. Online consultations are just $180 and that includes a full report, and a new diet plan based on your horse’s individual needs. It might just save you money in the long run!
