Introduction
As the seasons change, pasture composition and nutrient profiles shift. Adapting your horse’s forage can prevent metabolic upsets in summer and stave off weight loss or chill in winter.
Summer Feeding Challenges
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High Sugar Content: Hot, sunny weather drives sugar accumulation in grasses, risking laminitis.
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Lower Moisture: Dry pastures may lack hydration boost.
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Heat Stress: Overly rich feed can exacerbate dehydration and discomfort.
Recommended Summer Blend
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Lower NSC Fibre: High-fibre meadow or cocksfoot chaff to moderate sugar intake.
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Hydration Support: Lucerne chaff adds moisture and protein without excessive energy.
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Digestive Soothers: A touch of lucerne buffers gut acid, reducing ulcer risk during heat.
Winter Feeding Challenges
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Energy Deficit: Horses burn more calories to maintain body temperature.
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Reduced Grazing: Shorter days and frosts limit pasture availability.
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Weight Maintenance: Lean gain may stall without richer feeds.
Recommended Winter Blend
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Energy Density: Oaten chaff for an extra calorie boost.
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Protein Support: Lucerne for muscle repair and warmth.
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Slow-Release Fibre: Timothy or meadow chaff sustains fermentation through colder spells.
Implementing Seasonal Changes
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Transition Gradually – Swap no more than 20% of the ration per week.
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Monitor Body Condition – Use a Henneke score to guide adjustments.
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Adjust on the Fly – Increase fibre in heat; up energy when nights turn cold.
Why The Chaff Chaps Is Your Seasonal Partner
Offering five distinct chaff types—Lucerne, Meadow, Oaten, Timothy and Cocksfoot—The Chaff Chaps makes it simple to customise blends all year round. Their paper-bag packaging keeps each variety pristine, with no added oils to mask natural quality.
Conclusion
Smart seasonal feeding keeps horses healthy, happy and performing at their best. With The Chaff Chaps’ diverse, low-dust range, you can tailor rations to summer’s heat or winter’s chill—delivering optimal nutrition whatever the weather.
