When ridden more strenuously, feed an extra four pounds of grain daily. Hay intake may need to be reduced to get some horses to consume this level of grain. The total grain fed at one feeding should not exceed six pounds. Remember to feed at least one pound of hay and probably not more than one pound of grain per 100 pounds of body weight. Water intake can be critical in winter.
Horses prefer hot rather than cold water in winter.
Cold weather, lack of water intake and coarser feeds, such as hay, are a good formula for impaction colic. Impaction colic has been observed when a sudden cold snap occurs with a corresponding decrease in water intake. The use of fresh, clean, warm water and adequate trace mineralized salt may help prevent impaction colic. If ridden over rocky, rough terrain, horses may need to be shod, and their hooves should be trimmed routinely. When ridden in winter, they need to be groomed before and after riding and properly cooled-out afterwards to prevent sweating in cold weather.