22/06/2026
Why I’m not a fan of strip grazing – and why photos promoting it often make me pause and think. 🤦♀️
One of the questions I’m asked most often is how to help horses lose weight. In theory, the formula is simple: fewer calories plus more movement equals weight loss.
The challenge, of course, is putting that into practice within the realities of modern management and grazing conditions.
In many cases, our grazing systems simply aren’t ideal for horses. Access to rich pasture 24/7 in relatively small paddocks doesn’t reflect the way horses naturally evolved to live and forage.
If we don’t continue adapting our management to meet their needs, I do worry about the long-term impact on equine health.
I’m seeing and hearing about increasing numbers of horses diagnosed with conditions such as EMS, Cushing’s disease, PSSM, and, particularly this year, laminitis. While there are many contributing factors, nutrition, movement, and management all play an important role.
Personally, I’m not a fan of strip grazing or very small isolation paddocks for horses that need to lose weight. In many situations, these systems can encourage prolonged grazing while reducing movement—the opposite of what many overweight horses need. Equally, overly restricting access to forage can create other health concerns, so balance is essential.
What I do recommend:
* Track systems: I’m a big fan of simple track systems around the perimeter of a field, leaving the centre to grow for winter grazing, other horses, or topping. Horses that struggle with weight often benefit from having to browse and move for their forage rather than standing at an unrestricted buffet.
* Grazing muzzles: I wish more owners felt comfortable using them when appropriate. They may not be our first choice, but for many horses they provide a practical way to reduce grass intake while still allowing turnout, movement, and social interaction.
* Managing calorie intake: I’m not an advocate for starving horses, but those prone to overeating may benefit from scheduled time away from grass, whether that’s in a surfaced area or stable for part of the day, depending on the individual horse and veterinary advice.
* A balanced diet: Horses living out 24/7 still need appropriate vitamins and minerals. If they aren’t receiving a balanced ration through a balancer or suitable supplement, deficiencies can develop that may affect health, performance, or behaviour.
* Movement: This is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. A gentle hour’s stroll may not be enough for meaningful weight loss. Many horses benefit from either extended periods of walking or more purposeful exercise that raises their heart rate, always tailored to their fitness and any underlying conditions.
* Rugging: Every horse is different, but an otherwise healthy overweight horse doesn’t need heavy rugging, EVER! If the goal is simply to keep them clean for riding, a lightweight rain sheet is often sufficient 365 days of the year but never in summer. When did we stop thinking horses couldn’t cope with rain on them 😔
Unfortunately, overweight horses have become so common that it can be easy to see them as normal. Excess weight has significant consequences for long-term health and welfare, but with thoughtful management and early intervention, positive changes are absolutely possible.
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