Key Factors for Feeding Horses in Winter

critical time to supply these nutrients since pasture a good natural source of nutrients is no longer available. Further many performance horses are on reduced work or competition schedules and rely on these essential nutrients to repair tissues that have been damaged during the rigors of training.
Similarly pregnant mares and growing horses require these essential nutrients to grow and develop properly. The common source of supplemental protein vitamins and minerals is from fortified grain concentrates. It is crucial that you choose the product that is intended for the type of horse you are feeding. For example if you have a pregnant mare you would select a product intended for pregnant mares not senior horses. The next critical factor in choosing a grain concentrate is to make sure you are feeding the recommended amount. If you are feeding onethird of the amount recommended you are feeding onethird of the intended nutrients for that type of horse. If you feel the amount of feed recommended is too much or your horse is gaining too much weight then feed a more concentrated product. These more concentrated products are called supplement or balance pellets and are designed to be fed at much lower rate but are still fortified to provide the horse with adequate nutrients.
Winter is also the time when the barn may be closed up in an effort to make the environment warmer and less drafty for the horse. Good ventilation is more important than providing a little warmth so be sure to provide good air flow in your barn even in winter time.