Feeding horses correctly throughout the year is essential for maintaining health, performance, and body condition. Seasonal changes affect pasture quality, hydration needs, and calorie requirements. This seasonal feeding chart helps horse owners adjust nutrition safely and effectively.
Spring Feeding (March – May)
| Feeding Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Forage | Fresh pasture (introduce slowly) |
| Hay | Gradually reduce as grass increases |
| Grain | Light to moderate based on workload |
| Supplements | Magnesium, probiotics |
| Water | Unlimited fresh water |
| Key Focus | Prevent colic and laminitis |
- Introduce pasture over 7–14 days
- High-sugar grass may trigger laminitis
- Monitor weight gain closely
Summer Feeding (June – August)
| Feeding Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Forage | Pasture with hay if grass is limited |
| Hay | Free-choice if pasture quality is low |
| Grain | Adjust based on sweat and workload |
| Supplements | Electrolytes, salt block |
| Water | 10–15 gallons per day |
| Key Focus | Hydration and heat stress prevention |
- Feed during cooler hours
- Replace electrolytes lost through sweat
- Wet feeds may improve hydration
Fall Feeding (September – November)
| Feeding Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Forage | Pasture plus increasing hay |
| Hay | Increase as grass declines |
| Grain | Moderate to prepare for winter |
| Supplements | Vitamin E, omega-3 |
| Water | Clean and unfrozen |
| Key Focus | Weight maintenance |
- Fall grass can still be high in sugar
- Ideal season for body condition adjustment
- Schedule dental and deworming checks
Winter Feeding (December – February)
| Feeding Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Forage | High-quality grass hay |
| Hay | Free-choice for warmth and digestion |
| Grain | Increase if extra calories are needed |
| Supplements | Vitamin D, joint support |
| Water | Warm water (8–12 gallons daily) |
| Key Focus | Energy and hydration |
- Hay digestion generates body heat
- Senior horses may need soaked feeds
- Prevent dehydration caused by frozen water
Seasonal Feeding Best Practices
- Forage should always be the foundation of the diet
- Adjust feed based on workload and weather
- Monitor body condition score regularly
- Provide clean water year-round
Conclusion
A seasonal feeding plan helps horses stay healthy, energetic, and comfortable all year. By adjusting forage, grain, supplements, and hydration based on seasonal needs, horse owners can prevent common health issues and support long-term well-being.
Related Horse Care Guides for Beginners
Proper feeding is just one part of responsible horse ownership. To keep your horse healthy year-round, explore these essential beginner guides trusted by equestrians and veterinarians.
- Daily Horse Care Checklist for Beginners (2026 Guide) – Learn the complete morning and evening routine every new horse owner should follow.
- Equine Nutrition: Feeding Horses for Peak Performance – Understand forage, grain, supplements, and balanced diets for all activity levels.
- Horse Supplements That Actually Work (Vet Approved) – Discover which supplements truly support digestion, joints, and immunity.
- Feeding Senior Horses: Complete Guide – Special nutrition strategies for aging horses with dental or metabolic needs.
- Horseback Riding Safety Tips for Beginners – Reduce injury risks through safe handling, tack checks, and riding practices.
- Thermal Imaging, AI & Wearables in Horse Health (2026) – See how modern technology helps detect health issues early.
Together, these guides form a complete horse care knowledge base—covering feeding, health, safety, and daily management for beginners and experienced owners alike.
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