As we transition into fall, it's a great time to check your horse's Body Condition Score (BCS) to ensure they're in optimal shape for the cooler months ahead! 🍂
Here’s a quick guide:
Scores 1-3: Too thin — focus on increasing their caloric intake.
Scores 4-6: Ideal — ribs should be slightly visible or easily felt.
Scores 7-9: Overweight — consider adjusting their diet and exercise.
Check key areas like ribs, neck, shoulders, and tailhead to gauge their condition. Regular assessments help keep your horse healthy and happy!
Some additional and important thoughts!
- Be mindful of high sugars in the fall and frost!
- Frosts result in heightened sugar levels. These sugars are stored in the plant to be ready for when the grass can grow.
- Don’t be fooled by short grass that appears brown. At the base, this short dry grass is green and can actually have a higher NSC percentage than long, lush green grass.
- Watch for tight growth rings and a cresty neck, which could be an indicator of laminitis and/or the beginning of a metabolic issue.
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