Feeding a field-kept horse on light work?

[hxllywxight]

Hi
So this is a bit of a random question but, if a horse is kept out at grass 24/7/365, has access to hay in the winter and is worked 3/4 times a week for 30/40mins, would they need to be fed concentrated feed in addition to forage?
Thanks

 

[Goldenstar]

It entirely depends on the horse and how intensely you work when you are riding them .
I have one who be as fat as a pony with laminitis on that routine in he would get lami and I have another who would need loads of hard food .

 

[Pinkvboots]

If the horse is a good weight and has the energy to do the work you require there isn't really any need.

 

[PorkChop]

Shouldn't need anything extra unless your grazing is known to be deficient in anything.

 

[dozzie]

All of the above but it also depends also on the amount of grazing, age/type/breed of horse, teeth condition and any underlying health issues. Each horse is different and you have to just monitor condition and adjust accordingly. But some horses can live on just grass with hay supplemented when needed.

 

[SEL]

I have 2 out 24:7. One needs supplementary hay & hard feed even though he's retired & doesn't work. The other is worked daily and still fat - so she gets soaked hay & just a little feed with some supplements. Both are draft horses, but very different in terms of how they hold their weight.