Back to grass for horses: How to manage this transition during the warmer months

The arrival of the beautiful season is a moment eagerly awaited by both horses and their owners. Fresh grass begins to grow, the days get longer, and horses return to lush green pastures. However, this return to grazing, although natural, requires careful management to avoid certain issues—particularly the risks associated with overconsumption of fresh grass.

Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth and safe transition for your horses to spring grass.

1. Gradual Transition

One of the main risks of returning to pasture is too rapid an acclimatization. Horses that have been confined to paddocks or stables during the winter may have a digestive system that is not fully adapted to a grass-based diet. Moreover, spring grass is rich in sugars, which can lead to digestive disorders, colic, or even laminitis if consumed excessively.

To avoid these risks, start by limiting access to grass and gradually increase grazing time. For example, allow them to graze for one or two hours a day and increase this duration gradually over one or two weeks. This allows the horse’s digestive system to adapt without overwhelming its metabolism.

2. Monitor Grass Quality

Not all pastures are equal! Some grasses, especially those growing in spring, can be rich in fructans—complex sugars that are difficult for some horses to digest. These fructans can cause issues such as laminitis or colic, especially in more sensitive horses.

It’s important to monitor the condition of the pasture and avoid areas where the grass is particularly tall, fresh, or dense. Horses with a history of laminitis or digestive problems should be closely monitored and, in some cases, have limited access to grass.

3. Provide Complementary Feeding

Even though grass is an excellent food source, it doesn’t always meet all the nutritional needs of horses, especially if it’s of poor quality or too young. It’s advisable to add appropriate dietary supplements to the horse’s ration during this period.

Hay remains a staple food during the transition, especially if the grass hasn’t grown enough or is too rich. Make sure your horses have access to good-quality hay in addition to grass.

4. Adjust Physical Activity

Horses may get carried away with the excitement of returning to pasture—rushing to eat, running, or playing. Excessive activity can lead to injuries. That’s why it’s essential to adjust their exercise program according to their physical condition. A gradual approach is key to avoiding muscle or tendon pain. Don’t hesitate to start with gentle outings before resuming more intense training.

5. Prevent Parasite and Disease Risks

The return to pasture also marks an increase in the risk of parasitic infestations. Grazing horses may be exposed to intestinal worms and external parasites such as ticks or flies. Maintain regular veterinary check-ups, especially for deworming and prevention of diseases like influenza or leptospirosis.

6. Pasture Management

If you have several horses and only one large pasture, managing grazing areas is crucial. To avoid overconsumption and allow the grass to regenerate, consider dividing your pasture into sections and rotating them regularly. This helps maintain healthy soil and quality grass while offering your horses a varied and balanced grazing environment.

Conclusion

The return to pasture is a joyful time for horses and their owners, but it’s important to remember that this transition requires careful management to avoid health issues. A gradual introduction to grass, constant monitoring of grass quality, and adjustments in diet and exercise allow your horses to fully enjoy the season while preserving their well-being.

Enjoy nature, but keep a watchful eye on your horses’ health, and you’ll have a wonderful spring together!

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Horse Remedy cannot be held responsible for any interpretation made by readers of the information, advice, or recommendations provided on its blog, nor for any consequences that may result.

We provide information solely to promote and improve the natural health of your animal. In Belgium, the law stipulates that only a veterinarian is authorized to make a medical diagnosis and prescribe medical treatment.