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Transition Horses to Spring Pasture Gradually

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Thehorse.com - Full Article

When grasses start greening up in the spring, you might be tempted to turn your horse loose in the pasture to chow down on the new grass.

But be aware that any sudden change in your horse's diet could cause health problems, said Steve Jones, associate professor/extension equine specialist with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.

"Whether it's the grain, hay or pasture grass, any change in the horse's diet should be spread over several days or weeks," Jones said. "Increases in the amount of grain given to a horse should be added at a half-pound a day until the desired amount of grain is reached."

Grain increases may be needed because of an increase in activity level or for a mare during lactation. If the grain amount is increased too quickly, colic or laminitis can occur.

When introducing a new type of hay or grain...

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