By: Dr Rosie Alcorn BVSc PG Cert VPS Cert AVP MRCVS
Effective grass management for horses in the UK is one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, elements of equine care. Although the image of horses grazing freely in lush, green pastures is idyllic, the reality is that unmanaged grazing and overgrazing can lead to a variety of nutritional problems, some of which may have serious long-term health consequences for horses and ponies.
The UK’s temperate climate and high rainfall promote abundant grass growth for much of the year. While this provides a natural and cost-effective forage source, it also presents specific challenges. Many pastures have historically been cultivated for dairy cattle, resulting in reduced biodiversity and grass species that are high in sugar and energy - suitable for cows, but often unsuitable for horses, particularly those not in regular work.
1. Excess Energy Intake and Equine Obesity
Obesity is arguably the most significant nutritional issue linked to modern UK pastures. Many common grass species are bred for productivity in livestock farming and are not suited to equine dietary needs. Horses, especially native breeds and those in light work, evolved to consume high-fibre, low-calorie forage over extended periods of movement. On rich UK pastures, they may easily consume more calories than required, increasing the risk of:
Obesity
Insulin dysregulation (ID)
Laminitis
2. High Sugar and Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSCs)
UK grasses can contain high levels of sugars and non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs), particularly in spring and autumn, and after frosts or droughts. For horses prone to metabolic disorders, such as those with Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), this can disrupt gut health, lead to insulin spikes, and trigger laminitis.
Keyflow's Perfect Balance is a low sugar (2.5%), low calorie concentrated balancer that provides essential nutrients in an easily digested form.
Factors that influence NSC levels include:
Time of day (highest in the afternoon)
Weather conditions
Grass species
Grazing stress (e.g., from overgrazing or drought)
3. Mineral Imbalances in UK Soil and Grass
UK soils can vary in mineral content depending on location, but common imbalances that affect horse health include:
Low magnesium and selenium
Excessive iron (often from soil contamination)
Poor copper-to-zinc ratios
These imbalances can negatively impact metabolic health, muscle function, immunity, and hoof quality.
Controlled Grazing
Implement strip grazing or track systems to limit grass intake
Rotate grazing fields to avoid overgrazing and allow for pasture recovery
Avoid turnout during periods when NSCs are likely to peak
Species-Appropriate Pasture
Consider overseeding with horse-friendly grasses such as timothy, meadow fescue, or cocksfoot
Avoid pasture mixes dominated by ryegrass, which are typically designed for cattle and may be too rich for horses
Test your forage and soil to identify nutrient deficiencies or imbalances
Provide a vitamin and mineral supplement to address gaps in the diet, particularly if horses are on restricted grazing or hay-only diets. Or, a balancer such as Perfect Balance
Regularly remove or control toxic plants (e.g., ragwort, buttercup)
Harrow and rest fields to break up manure and encourage even regrowth
Maintain fencing and drainage to support long-term pasture health
While grass is a natural and vital feed source, UK pastures often require active management to ensure they are safe and suitable for horses. By balancing energy intake, monitoring sugar and carbohydrate levels, and addressing mineral imbalances, horse owners can greatly reduce the risk of diet-related illnesses such as laminitis and obesity.
Good grass management is not just about pasture - it’s about the whole horse.
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