As Autumn settles in, the composition of pasture grasses begins to change. Horses are still interested in grazing and grasses may still largely be green, but the nutrition is not the same.
Horse grazing in a pasture in poor condition
Nutrition is not the same as autumn settles in and the composition of pasture grasses begins to change in horse pastures.
© 2018 by Heather Thomas
All grasses have a natural growth cycle and preferred growing conditions, during which they will take a few weeks to grow to full height, develop and then drop seed. Hay should be cut for peak nutritional value at the stage of active growth and before the grass has set seed.
After full height is reached and seed begins to form, the caloric value, carbohydrate level and protein in the plant start to drop. Fiber and lignin begin to rise, decreasing digestibility overall. Mineral levels may drop, and the minerals present may be less bioavailable because of complexation with fiber. Levels of vitamin E and fat progressively fall. The fat loss is almost exclusively the more fragile omega-3 fats.
For horses being maintained on pasture, the signs of declining nutritional value include:
- Weight loss
- Loss of "bloom" (duller, dry coat)
- Poor hoof quality
- Appearance of hoof abscesses
- Low energy
- Slowed growth in young animals
Horses with poor hind gut function may show a distended abdomen, increased gas and/or loose manure or increased free fluid with manure.
It's better to start supplemental feeding before you see any of these signs. Offer hay in a covered feeder or in hay bags in shelters. When pasture quality is adequate, they will eat very little or ignore it. A growing interest in hay is a strong indicator pasture nutrition is lacking.
- All horses should receive vitamin E, 1000 to 2000 IU/day, preferably in an oil base.
- Begin supplementing a high omega-3, flax based product at 2 to 6 oz/day.
- Horses on mature stands of grass should all be supported with an essential amino acid supplement of L-lysine, D,L-methionine and L-threonine.
- A concentrated quality protein supplement based on soy and whey should be added if supplemental feeds are not meeting protein requirements as the pasture ages and begins to lose the bright green color.
When in doubt about protein and fiber levels, a short pasture analysis can be obtained very inexpensively. Ask your local agricultural extension agent.
If you know when and what to supplement, your pastured horses can keep that Spring glow of health all year long.
Uckele Health & Nutrition, maker of CocoSoya, offers supplements that provide support for fading pastures.
CocoOmega is a non-GMO and soy free formula that supplies fatty acids in the ideal ratio that mimics the ratio of 4 to 1 Omega-3 to Omega-6 fatty acids found in fresh forages. Promotes a glossy, healthy coat, and supports skin, hooves and joint function by retaining moisture in the cells and tissues to maintain healthy hydration. Available in an oil or granular.
Liquid E-50 is a concentrated liquid Vitamin E that protects the body from damaging free radicals that can weaken cells and tissues. In addition to powerful antioxidant properties, Vitamin E promotes healthy immune, cardiovascular, circulatory, neuromuscular, and reproductive functions.
Tri-Amino helps maintain strong muscles, healthy weight, and supports a healthy topline with the three most essential amino acids. Lysine aids in bone health and immune function. Methionine plays a role in the synthesis of structural proteins, especially hooves and connective tissues, and hair and mane coat. Threonine aids in healthy immune function.
AminoFac-41 supports increased protein needs to promote muscle integrity and definition. Concentrated source of all the amino acids, including 4% Lysine. Supports lean muscle mass, bone and joint structure, vital organ development, immune system function, and hoof and connective tissue health.
Note: Updated article was first posted on Equimed fall of 2019.
Press release provided by Susan Libby - Uckele Health & Nutrition