Summer to Autumn Transition: How to Adjust Your Horse’s Feed and Blanketing

With the gentle shift from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn, horse owners embark on the annual journey of adapting their equine companions' care routines. This transition demands careful attention to the changing weather conditions and the evolving needs of our beloved horses. As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, it becomes imperative to fine-tune our approach to feeding and blanketing to ensure our horses remain healthy, comfortable, and ready for the seasonal changes ahead. In this guide, we'll explore essential tips and recommend products from Greg Grant Saddlery to support your horse's well-being during the summer to autumn transition.

Assessing Nutritional Needs

As the temperatures drop, horses may require adjustments to their diet to maintain optimal health and condition. Here are some key considerations

• Forage Quality: In many regions, autumn marks the transition from lush pastures to drier forage and grass growth begins to slow in the cooler months. Evaluate the quality of your horse’s grazing paddocks and consider supplementing with hay or alternative forage sources if necessary.
  
  
• Energy Requirements: Cooler temperatures may increase your horse’s energy expenditure as they work to stay warm. Adjust feed rations accordingly, ensuring they receive sufficient calories to support their activity level and maintain body condition.
  
  
• Micronutrient Supplementation: Autumn pastures may not provide the same level of essential vitamins and minerals as summer pastures. Consider adding a balanced equine supplement to your horse’s diet to fill any nutritional gaps.

Transitioning Grains and Concentrates

If your horse’s diet includes grains or concentrates, transitioning between feed formulations should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing small amounts of the new feed with the old, gradually increasing the proportion of new feed over the course of several days until the transition is complete.

Monitoring Hydration

While cooler temperatures may decrease your horse’s water intake, it’s essential to ensure they remain adequately hydrated. Monitor water consumption closely and consider using warmer waters in their daily feed mixes for added hydration.

Adjusting Blanketing

As autumn brings cooler temperatures and fluctuating weather patterns, finding the right balance with blanketing is crucial for your horse’s comfort.

• Consider Temperature and Weather: Pay attention to weather forecasts and adjust blanketing accordingly. A waterproof turnout rug may be sufficient for mild autumn days, while a heavier blanket or layering may be necessary as temperatures drop.

• Monitor Body Condition Score: Regularly assess your horse’s body condition score to ensure they are neither too warm nor too cold. Adjust blanket weights as needed to maintain a healthy body temperature.

Provide Shelter and Turnout

During the autumn transition, it’s essential to provide horses with access to shelter to seek refuge from inclement weather. Additionally, turnout time should be maintained whenever possible to allow for natural movement and grazing opportunities.

By proactively adjusting your horse’s feed and blanketing as summer gives way to autumn, you can ensure their continued health, comfort, and well-being throughout the changing seasons. Remember to monitor your horse closely for any signs of discomfort or dietary imbalances and consult with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist for personalised guidance tailored to your horse’s individual needs. With proper care and attention, you and your horse can enjoy a smooth transition into the delights of autumn riding and adventure.