24/06/2026
Do I need to feed my horse more in cold weather? Maybe, but not always...
Horses are quite good at managing cold, in fact they're better at handling very cold than very hot weather. But every horse is different, and whether they need more feed comes down to a few key things ⬇️
Lower Critical Temperature or LCT
This is the temperature below which they must use extra energy to maintain body temperature. In most horses this is between 0°C and 5°C, BUT it can vary depending on:
➡️ The climate they are used to (if they're accustomed to the cold with a thick coat, the LCT can drop as low as 8°C- 10°C).
➡️ Whether they have a natural, thick coat or not
➡️ Age (young horses, foals and seniors have a higher LCT)
➡️ Condition and SA:vol ratio
➡️ Health status (sickness can increase LCT)
➡️ Wind chill factor and wet weather
➕ When temperature remains above LCT, a horse can usually stay warm without increasing energy expenditure and energy requirements.
➖ Once temperature falls below LCT, daily energy requirements rise as the horse burns more energy to stay warm.
Condition and SA:Vol Ratio:
A horse's surface area-to-volume ratio (and body condition score) influences LCT because heat is lost through the body's surface, while heat is generated by the body's mass.
➕ Larger, well-conditioned horses generally have a lower surface area relative to their body volume, so less area to lose heat across meaning they lose heat more slowly.
➖ Finer-framed horses with lower body condition scores have a higher surface area relative to their body weight and tend to lose heat more quickly.
TIP: Wet, windy conditions dramatically increase heat loss because it reduces their coat's ability to insulate them. Make sure they have adequate shelter, especially from wind.
So, do you need to add more feed?
🅰️ It depends on the horse standing in front of you and your individual climate. If you're not sure, our nutrition team can help you, just send us a message.
REMEMBER: fibre is a very good source of energy and helps to keep them warm! Make sure they are getting enough quality fibre first, then adjust their diet to add more calories if needed.
