What a changeable month February has been! With the temperatures creeping up – though it doesn’t always feel like it – the grass is beginning to grow. Once the soil is above 6 deg. C. the grass will start to get going. If your horses are enjoying some turn out, you may not notice this growth, as the horses will be nipping off all those tasty, tender shoots as soon as they pop above the parapet. The horse’s gut will notice! You may see that the droppings are a bit softer and greener than usual and this could be a sign that susceptible horses are at greater risk of laminitis. For such horses, especially on heavily grazed pasture, be sure to supply them with a free access, plain salt lick such as our Salt Lick Tub. Stressed grass (who wouldn’t be stressed if every effort to grow was thwarted by some horse with big gnashers?!) can be sodium deficient as well as high in sugar. Not a good combination for any horse and especially those prone to metabolic issues. If you are concerned about the effects of spring grass, consider feeding MetaSlim. MetaSlim is a balancing feed, specifically designed for those challenged by weight or metabolic issues including those affecting their feet. As always, if your horse is unwell, contact your vet.
Rain fall can trigger growth akin to a spring flush, especially if temperatures are high. Even whilst true spring may be in the past, the risk for those prone to laminitis will rise.
For the second consecutive Sunday, presenter Adam Henson has discussed the use of sainfoin during Countryfile.
''Feed the mare to feed the foal'' - wise words from many an experienced breeder. With little grass due to the dry weather, grazing can be topped up in the feed bowl.