PaulineW
Well-Known Member
hi, I have recently bought a lovely chunky cob mare, 14.2hh, who is currently rather obese. She is unclipped, wont be doing much this side of winter and has a good coat on her. Where she is kept is a farm on a hillside so nicely drained. Her field is about 2 acres with good grass still, and shelter on 2 sides from the elements. Its already cold up here (Alness, Ross-shire North Highlands) and was -2 at 6pm tonight.
My question is whether I should be considering hay at this time, or will she be comfortable enough on grazing? I have a rug for her but the weather is still up and down (8 degrees some days, 1 the next) so I'm keeping her unrugged until its constantly wet or very cold. The farm has plenty of grazing so potentially I can move fields several times as required. Hay is expensive this year, with round bales around £50 each, so I am hesitant to start feeding too early. Anyone in a similar position who would like to share their thoughts? Thanks.
My question is whether I should be considering hay at this time, or will she be comfortable enough on grazing? I have a rug for her but the weather is still up and down (8 degrees some days, 1 the next) so I'm keeping her unrugged until its constantly wet or very cold. The farm has plenty of grazing so potentially I can move fields several times as required. Hay is expensive this year, with round bales around £50 each, so I am hesitant to start feeding too early. Anyone in a similar position who would like to share their thoughts? Thanks.