Winter often means more time in, more rugs, and a shift in calorie sources. The hindgut likes routine, so we change feeds slowly and keep fibre front and centre. That is how you avoid loose droppings, gassy tummies and that not-quite-right behaviour when the weather turns.
Why slow transitions matter
Billions of microbes in the hindgut digest fibre and support energy, immunity and coat bloom. Sudden changes shock that ecosystem. A calm, staged approach gives the microbiome time to adapt and keeps appetites steady.
A simple 10-day transition plan
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Days 1–3: 75% current feed, 25% new feed
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Days 4–6: 50% current feed, 50% new feed
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Days 7–9: 25% current feed, 75% new feed
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Day 10+: 100% new feed
Stretch this timeline for sensitive types, poor doers or horses with a history of digestive upsets.
Fibre first, always
Base the ration on good-quality forage. Add unmolassed chaff or soaked beet to slow intake and support hydration. Keep starch and sugar modest, especially for natives or horses out of full work. Introduce any balancer or conditioning cubes on the same slow schedule.
Hydration and salt in cold weather
Water intake drops in cold snaps. Offer lukewarm water where you can. Provide plain salt daily and add electrolytes on schooling days or after clipping when sweat loss creeps up. Fibre ferments best when the horse is well hydrated.
Signs to watch
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Appetite changes or new fussiness
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Sour smell or obvious gas
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Loose, very dry or very firm droppings
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Dull coat or loss of “spark”
If you see any of these, pause the transition at the current ratio for a few days, then proceed more slowly. Speak to your vet if you are concerned.
Support during transitions
Daily digestive support can make the whole process calmer. Radiance Gold Original includes live yeast to stabilise the hindgut, support fibre digestion and help nutrient uptake. It suits a wide range of horses year round and slots neatly into the bucket when you begin a feed change. Many owners set up a subscription through winter so they do not run out in a cold snap and the gut stays supported from one bag to the next.
If you are planning your winter switch now, build your 10-day plan, keep fibre and water front and centre, and consider adding Radiance Gold Original for digestive stability while the ration evolves.