66: Worried about putting your horse on grass? Here are Some Tips for Prevention for More Sugar-Sensitive Horses

As spring approaches, many horse owners become concerned about what the grass returning could mean for their more sugar-sensitive horses, as those horses usually have a history of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, PPID, PSSM, laminitis, and hoof problems. Managing sugar intake and keeping their hooves healthy is the key to avoiding serious setbacks in sugar-sensitive horses. So, in this episode, I share some simple and effective strategies for supporting horses and managing their sugar levels as they go back onto grass.Supporting the Transition to GrassSpring grass can be challenging for horses with metabolic issues or a history of laminitis. Owners must do all they can to avoid setbacks in those horses while supporting their natural foraging instincts.Why Grass Can Be a ProblemFresh grass is low in fiber and high in rapidly digestible carbohydrates, which can cause insulin spikes in sugar-sensitive horses. The lack of fiber and abrupt dietary change can also impact gut health, leading to leaky gut and cecal acidosis.Start SlowlyThe transition from hay to grass should be gradual, and sugar-sensitive horses should not be allowed to binge on grass after long winters off-pasture. Even a 10-minute binge can trigger symptoms in sensitive horses, so pay attention to early warning signs like swelling, fatigue, or hoof soreness.Always Offer Hay with GrassProviding low-sugar hay alongside grazing reduces the glycemic impact and helps regulate blood sugar. Strategically placing hay around the pasture will encourage movement and help manage total carbohydrate intake.Timing Matters Grass sugar levels change throughout the day. Mornings, especially between 5 and 7 a.m., is the safest time for horses to graze, as photosynthesis has not yet caused sugar levels to spike.Feeding Strategies Feeding horses a fiber-rich, balanced mash before turning them out can increase their satiety and blunt insulin spikes. That helps manage metabolic responses and makes grazing less risky.Monitor and AdjustLook out for swelling in the sheath, puffy eyes, a laminitis stance, or general fatigue, as those indicate that the horse is reactive to sugar. Pull the horse off the grass immediately should any of those symptoms appear.Gut HealthHealthy gut flora is essential, especially during feed changes. Give your horse a high-quality probiotic and add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to their feed daily to support digestion and help regulate blood sugar.Consistent Feeding ProgramsFollowing a well-balanced feeding program, like those in my Equine Metabolic Syndrome course, can support insulin regulation and prevent problems during seasonal transitions.BalanceEntirely restricting grass may increase stress and reduce the quality of life of horses. The aim is to build tolerance and support health so the horse can eventually enjoy some natural forage safely.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome NaturallyRegister for my self-paced course, Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally.