Curious Equestrian
Curious Equestrian
Curious Equestrian, produced by Theresa McCaffrey, hosted by Anna Louise Claydon
The Complete Winter Feeding Masterclass
56 minutes Posted Jan 29, 2026 at 4:14 am.
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This is your comprehensive "Winter Survival Guide." In this deep-dive, Independent Equine Nutritionist Clare MacLeod (MSc) joins us to cover virtually every aspect of managing your horse through the colder months.

From the anxiety of the Hay Crisis to the confusion around rugging and fasting windows, we leave no stone unturned. Clare provides the science-backed protocols you need to prevent colic, manage mud, and keep both "Good Doers" and "Hard Keepers" healthy until spring.

In This Extensive Guide, We Cover:

  • The Forage Crisis: Exact protocols for stretching hay and safely mixing forage types.

  • Gut Health: The "7-Day Rule" for transitions and the truth about "Ad Lib" feeding.

  • Medical Myths: Why the "4-Hour Fasting Window" is critical for ulcer prevention.

  • Management: To rug or not to rug? A nutritionist's verdict on calories vs. cold.

  • Winter Colic: The link between dehydration, impaction, and cold weather.

  • Weight Watching: Using the winter slump to your advantage for "Good Doers."

Guest Resources:

  • Clare MacLeod’s Website: https://www.equinenutritionist.com/

  • Follow Clare on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClareMacLeodEquineNutritionist