The cold weather of winter creates a need to change the management of feeding for many horse owners. I d like to pass on to you. With the wide changes in temperature, wind and moisture, often more emphasis is focused on protection for the horse - primarily shelter and possibly blanketing. But attention also needs to be placed on some nutritional factors. Availability of water and energy are two basic nutrients affected by drastic changes in the environment.
Water is the most essential, most easily available and most often overlooked nutrient.
There is a common misconception that a horse can meet its water requirements by eating snow. This requires additional energy and will limit water intake. Reduced water intake can cause colic due to impaction. During periods of freezing temperatures, the ice should be removed twice daily from water troughs, tubs, buckets, etc. Water freezing can be prevented by use of livestock-approved electric water heaters.