Autumn Horse Care: Essential Considerations for the Changing Season

As the temperature begins to drop, autumn is a good time to prepare horses for the winter season. Autumn brings unique challenges and opportunities that directly impact a horse's health, comfort, and well-being. As horse owners we need to ensure that our horse’s nutritional needs are being met, as well as assess our horse’s water consumption, body condition and exercise regime. This allows horse owners to be proactive in ensuring their horses heads into winter healthy, with their best hoof forward!

Pasture and Nutrition Management

The Changing Nutritional Landscape

Autumn pastures undergo significant changes that affect your horse's nutrition. If your horse is one reticulated pasture, chances are they are consuming a summer grass such as kikuyu, buffalo or couch grass. As we head into winter, these grasses will begin to prepare for dormancy, which means that the nutritional composition will change, and there will also be less grass!

For other pastures, the grass will start to grow! As the rain begins to fall, grass shoots will start to flourish and horses in these pastures will have ample grass pick.

Until there is adequate pasture coverage, it is always best to supplement horses with hay in their paddock so that they are not prematurely picking at new grass shoots (causing sand accumulation). For horses on reticulated paddocks, an increase in hay being fed may be required to maintain optimal condition, and to compensate for less grass being consumed. 

Preparing for Winter Feeding

Autumn is the ideal time to prepare for winter feeding. The following points are factors that should be considered:

• Check hay supply to ensure that you have enough through winter

• Adjust hard feed and supplement programs based on changing needs. For example, if your horse has an increased competition schedule in winter, it may require more calories

• Consider adding omega-3 fatty acids to support coat health during the shedding and growing cycle

• Evaluate vitamin E supplementation as fresh grass becomes limited (essential for horses in bare paddocks or reticulated pasture with reduced grass growth)

Health Considerations

Parasite Control Strategy

Autumn calls for a targeted approach to parasite management:

• Schedule a fecal egg count test to determine parasite burden

• Consult with your veterinarian about strategic deworming

• Continue manure management practices to reduce parasite pressure

Dental Check

Schedule a dental examination before winter arrives. Proper dental care ensures your horse can efficiently process hay and maintain weight during winter when forage becomes the dietary foundation. Address any sharp points, hooks, or other dental issues now to prevent weight loss or feeding difficulties later.

Routine Care Adjustments

Coat and Skin Care

During autumn, your horse's coat undergoes significant changes. To help care for your horse’s coat and skin, the following should be considered:

• Increase grooming frequency to help remove loose hair and stimulate circulation

• Use shedding tools appropriately to assist with the summer-to-winter coat transition

• Monitor for rain rot and other skin conditions that thrive in the damp autumn environment

• Consider when to begin rugging, if appropriate for your horse's needs

Hoof Care

Autumn's fluctuating conditions present unique challenges for hoof health. It is important to consider:

• Alternating wet and dry conditions can cause hooves to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks or splits

• Schedule regular farrier visits to maintain proper balance as footing changes

• Consider whether your horse needs shoes removed for winter or specialised shoes for changing conditions

• Clean hooves more frequently as mud becomes a persistent issue

Facility Preparations

Pasture Management

Take these steps to prepare your pastures for the winter:

• Complete any final mowing before winter to prevent tall, matted grass in spring

• Address drainage issues before heavy autumn rains make repairs difficult

• Remove manure piles to prevent parasite buildup during winter

• Consider a soil test to determine if lime or fertilisation is needed before winter

Shelter Assessment

Now is the time to ensure your horse's shelter is ready for worsening weather:

• Repair any roof leaks, loose boards, or structural concerns

• Check that drainage around shelters prevents muddy conditions

• Consider wind direction when positioning portable shelters

• Ensure adequate space if horses will be sharing shelters during inclement weather

Exercise and Mental Well-being

Adapting the Exercise Routine

As daylight hours decrease and weather becomes less predictable, the following should be considered:

• Adjust riding schedules to accommodate earlier sunsets

• Invest in reflective gear for low-light riding situations

• Have flexible exercise alternatives for days when riding isn't possible

• Consider how your competition or training schedule might need adjustment

Mental Stimulation

For horses that may soon face reduced turnout or activity:

• Introduce enrichment activities that can continue through winter

• Schedule social time with compatible horses

• Consider varied groundwork or training sessions to keep minds engaged

• Create indoor activities for days when outdoor time is limited

Seasonal Health Risks

Weather-Related Stress

The fluctuating temperatures of autumn can cause stress. The following factors should be considered:

• Sudden cold snaps may require additional calories

• Rapid temperature changes can trigger colic episodes

• Wet, windy conditions can quickly chill horses, especially seniors or those with health issues

• Monitor water intake to ensure horses are drinking enough water

Monitor weather forecasts diligently and be prepared to adjust management accordingly.

Autumn offers a perfect opportunity to make gradual adjustments that prepare both you and your horse for winter's challenges. By addressing nutrition, health, shelter, and exercise considerations now, you create a smoother transition into the colder months.

This season of preparation is also an excellent time to establish or review your winter emergency plans, stock up on essential supplies, and ensure all equipment is in good working order. Your thoughtful autumn care will pay dividends in your horse's winter health and comfort.