Spring Feeding Tips for Horses: Getting Your Herd Ready for the Season

Preparing Your Horses for Spring

As the days grow longer and pastures begin to flush with new growth, spring is one of the most exciting — and critical — times of year for horse nutrition. A thoughtful transition from winter feeding to spring grazing can make a real difference to your horse's health, condition, and performance.

Manage the Transition to Pasture Carefully

New spring grass is rich in non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs), which can cause digestive upset, laminitis, and weight gain if horses are introduced to it too quickly. Follow these guidelines:

• Start with short grazing sessions of 15–30 minutes and gradually increase over 2–3 weeks.
• Graze in the morning when NSC levels are lower (after overnight respiration has reduced sugar content).
• Keep hay available to help buffer the gut during the transition.

Adjust Hay and Supplementary Feed

As pasture intake increases, you can gradually reduce hay and hard feed. Monitor body condition regularly — spring grass is energy-dense and many horses will gain weight rapidly. Products like Fiber Fresh Fiber Protect and Fiber Fresh Boost are excellent low-sugar, high-fibre options to maintain gut function during the changeover.

Don't Forget Minerals and Supplements

Spring grass, while lush, can be mineral-imbalanced — often high in potassium and low in sodium, magnesium, and zinc. Consider:

• A broad-spectrum mineral supplement to fill nutritional gaps.
• Magnesium supplementation, particularly for horses prone to grass-related issues.
• Electrolytes as temperatures warm and horses begin to sweat more during work.

Top Up Key Feed Stocks Now

Spring sees increased demand across the board. Ensure you're well-stocked on high-velocity feeds like Oroua Downs Lucerne Chaff, CopRice Rice Bran, and Dunstan Fibre Grow Pellets before the season hits full swing — these products move fast and you don't want to be caught short.

Monitor, Adjust, Repeat

Every horse is different. Use body condition scoring regularly and adjust feed accordingly. Work with your vet or equine nutritionist if you have horses prone to metabolic issues, laminitis, or significant weight changes.

Spring is a great time to reassess your feeding programme and set your horses up for a healthy, active season. Browse our full range of spring-ready feed and supplements in-store and online.