SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/horse-winter-forage-energy

What is the best way to give a horse extra energy in cold winter weather?

More forage, like hay.

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  1. More grain only
  2. More hay or other forage ✔
  3. Sugar cubes

Why: Digesting fiber in the gut makes heat, so extra hay helps a horse stay warm. Grain does not warm the horse in the same way. Keep water at a drinkable temperature too.

Huh, didn't know that: UMN says that for every degree below 18 F, a horse needs about one percent more energy.

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What's the difference between a horse and the weather? One reigns, the other rains.
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References

Answer: More hay or other forage. Digesting fiber in the gut makes heat, so extra hay helps a horse stay warm. Grain does not warm the horse in the same way. Keep water at a drinkable temperature too.

  1. Caring for your horse in winter, UMN Extension extension.umn.edu/node/1211
    The best source of additional dietary energy during the cold winter months is forage.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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