Winter nutrition management is critical for horse welfare. Cold temperatures increase energy requirements significantly, and inadequate feeding during winter causes body condition loss and associated welfare harms.
Winter is a welfare-sensitive period for horses, particularly those in marginal body condition, those with dental issues that limit forage utilization, and seniors with reduced thermoregulatory capacity. Horses that lose excessive condition during winter experience hunger, cold stress, and the metabolic consequences of mobilizing muscle and fat for energy. The welfare decision to maintain adequate nutrition through winter has direct and measurable impact on physical condition and comfort. A common mistake is failing to increase forage provision as temperatures drop, particularly during cold snaps. Horses depend on adequate hay when pasture is dormant or snow-covered, and the temptation to restrict hay for cost reasons during winter directly translates to horse welfare compromise. Dental assessment before winter allows proactive management of horses that cannot adequately process long-stem fiber.