Autumn is a favorite season of many. It offers cooler weather and beautiful scenery! Horse owners will need to be diligent this fall though. Many horses are at risk for certain health conditions when this season approaches. It's better to be prepared and keep your horses safe!

Autumn Health Concerns

  1. Fall Laminitis: Everyone is worried about their horse foundering in the spring and summer, but don't forgot about fall time! Warm days and cool nights cause a sugar increase in the grass. Those overweight ponies and horses with insulin issues are at a particularly high risk, so don't let them overindulge.
  2. Toxic Leaves: Dried and wilted leaves from certain trees and shrubbery can be toxic to your horse. You'll want to check what kind of trees are in their pasture. Be cautious of the wind blowing leaves into their field, as well.
  3. Scratches and Rain Rot: Moist conditions from rainy autumn days will allow fungus and bacteria to grow rapidly. You'll want to check your horse on a regular basis for scratches, rain rot, thrush, and other fungal infections.
  4. Colic: Many horses consume less water when temperatures become chilly. Impaction colic can be caused by lack of water and movement. Your horse needs between 10 to 15 gallons of fresh water daily.
  5. Respiratory Issues: It may be tempting to close up windows and doors when the temperatures get chilly, but proper ventilation is key to your horse's respiratory health. They need fresh air!
autumn horse COWGIRL magazine
A grazing horse. Photo by Annie Spratt.

Fall is a beautiful time of year, but it does require careful management of our equine friends.

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