09/03/2026
TOP TIPS FOR WEIGHT MANAGEMENT (Part 2)
Our first part focused more on laminitics, in this second part we'll look more at horses that aren't laminitic but need to shed some pounds!
Similarly to us, it's diet and exercise that are the two factors we need to make some changes to.
🌱Limiting calories consumed when grazing
Grass can be a rich source of calories and is often higher than hay/haylage, it is also likely to change dependent on area and time of year. It's estimated that a 500kg horse out for 8 hours can consume between 0.7%-1.4% of their bodyweight in dry matter (grass is 80% water). This means we need to remember to account for grass when thinking about diet and forage restriction.
So, how can we restrict calories when grazing :
🌾Utilising small paddocks that have been overgrazed or poor quality
An easy way to limit a horse's intake but still provide turnout time. Whilst the grass can contain higher sugar content due to stress, the total amount your horse eats will still be lower than if it were longer grass.
🐴 Muzzles
We appreciate these are not always an owner favourite, but they are a genuinely great tool when used correctly, that can facilitate weight loss with turn out time. A study conducted in 2012 (A.C Longland et al.), found that dry matter intake was reduced by an average of 83% in ponies wearing muzzles for turnout, than those that were without muzzles.
🥕Strip grazing & Track systems
Strip grazing involves using electric tape to separate a larger paddock, providing controlled amounts of fresh grass and encouraging movement. Whilst also allowing areas of the field to rest.
Track systems are fantastic ways to encourage movement by increasing exercise, allowing those that may otherwise require restricted turnout time to have as much freedom as possible. There's many fantastic examples online, some including steps, poles and other obstacles.
🍎Hard feed 🍎
It's really important to review your horse's hard feed when concerned about weight and consider whether they actually need it! Most good doers will only need a lo-cal balancer to ensure they are receiving all the needed vitamins & minerals. We'd recommend taking a look at the sugar & starch content of your feed to ensure it is below 5%, don't be caught out by chaffs - we've seen some with 16% sugar!
🏋🏼♀️ Exercise
We know it's hard, particularly in the winter months, but just like us humans, exercise really will be a major factor for weight loss. For those horses carrying extra weight we'd recommend low impact exercise initially, long walking hacks with hillwork are perfect, alongside in hand poles or walking. The lighter evenings are fast approaching so hopefully many of you will feel inspired to be back in the saddle!
