’Tis the season of digestive support for horses! Late fall, early winter, and the holiday season is a great time to focus on equine digestion. Horses can be resilient and resolute animals. But they can be sensitive to various changes in weather and environment—especially the challenges winter presents.
Their digestive system is one area that can be particularly susceptible to issues during the cold weather months. Changes in diet and water consumption are two big factors. Reduced activity can also play a role. In the end, your horse may need a little help along the way. It may be in the form of horse supplements or additional hydration. Here’s a closer look at why supporting your horse’s digestion is so important throughout the winter.
Things Can Move a Little Slower in Winter
Everyone tends to move a little slower when the temperatures drop, horses included. They may eat or drink less, which can slow their digestion and manure production. These kinds of changes aren’t necessarily something to be worried about, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on changes just in case things get severe.
Winter can also be a time to start a regimen of gut supplements or horse probiotics to further support their digestive wellness. However, if you notice significant changes in food and water intake or they’re producing less (or no) manure, these are signs to make a change. If you see a horse preoccupied with their belly (constant glances, nuzzling, nipping), it can also be a sign of intestinal distress and, potentially, colic. If symptoms persist, consult an equine vet.
Hydration Is Always Essential
Hydration is essential year-round, but it can be even more important for horses during winter. Between reduced activity and changes in diet, like increased dry hay, horses might not be as hydrated as they are during other times of the year. You can help them avoid dehydration by making water more accessible and making sure it doesn’t freeze. You can also add moisture to their hay or feed.
You can also encourage greater water intake by increasing their daily activity, even if it’s just walking. It may be cold and snowy, but staying active can accomplish several things. It can help with digestion, trigger thirst, and improve their behavior. Sometimes, you can even sneak a little apple juice into their water if they need a little extra incentive.
Don’t Forget About Parasites!
While a horse might not exhibit any outward signs of parasites, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re out of the woods during the winter. Parasites can lay dormant for months, waiting for seasonal changes in spring to become active again. During this waiting period, they may mature in the horse’s stomach or intestinal wall.
Of course, this can vary based on the type of parasite, but you can take action even against “quiet” intruders. Natural horse dewormers can help foster an intestinal system where the parasites aren’t able to mature. Horse dewormers can help push parasites out of your horse’s system. That means, come spring, you have less to worry about!
About Silver Lining Herbs
Silver Lining Herbs was founded on the principle of supporting your animals’ health and wellness with 100% natural supplements. They recognize that nature is full of safe and effective herbal ingredients that can help deliver real results. With their comprehensive range of natural horse supplements, you can support your horse’s appearance, performance, and overall well-being, inside and out. You can browse a wide variety of products, from effective horse dewormers to horse probiotics, all made with only the highest-quality ingredients. Silver Lining Herbs isn’t just dedicated to equine health, either. They’ve also developed a full range of natural dog supplements, including their natural dog dewormer. When the health and wellness of your animals is your number one priority, turn to Silver Lining Herbs.
Get digestive supporting supplements for your horses at https://www.silverliningherbs.com/
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