Switch-Up: Adjusting Horse Feed for Summer Heat

As June brings summer’s warmth, with temperatures often rising into the 90s and even 100s, your horses feel the heat just as much as we do. Warmer days mean their bodies work harder to stay cool, altering their nutritional needs to keep them healthy and energetic. Whether you manage a trail horse, a show pony, or a working ranch steed, now is the time to adjust their feed for summer. Here’s how to make those changes safely, with recommendations for hay and supplements to support your equine companions.

Horses sweat more in summer, losing water and electrolytes, and they may eat less if heat reduces their appetite. A spring diet—perhaps heavy on grain or rich pasture—can be too high in sugars now, increasing risks of colic or laminitis, especially for horses with insulin resistance. Switching to a lower-sugar, digestible feed is ideal, and Bermuda and Teff hays are our top choices at Tom’s for summer. Bermuda’s low non-structural carbohydrates (NSC, 10-12%) and teff’s even lower NSC (8-10%) provide energy without spiking blood sugar, making them safe and palatable, even on hot days. Pair these with Electro Dex Electrolytes, available at Tom’s, to replenish salts lost in sweat and encourage drinking—use 1-2 ounces daily, mixed into feed or water, but always consult your veterinarian for your horse’s specific needs.

To change feeds safely, proceed gradually to avoid upsetting a horse’s sensitive digestive system. Begin by replacing 25% of their current hay or grain with bermuda or teff hay over 3-4 days. For example, if they consume 20 pounds of alfalfa hay daily, substitute 5 pounds with bermuda or teff. Over the next week, increase to 50%, then 75%, taking at least 10-14 days for a full transition. Introduce Electro Dex Electrolytes slowly as well—start with a half-dose and build up over a week. Monitor for signs of distress, such as refusing feed, loose stools, or a dull coat, and reduce changes if these appear. For 4H students, this is an excellent opportunity to learn feed management—keep a record of adjustments and your horse’s responses.

Water is critical in June’s heat—ensure horses have constant access to clean, cool water, aiming for 10-15 gallons daily. Clean troughs regularly to prevent algae growth and place them in shaded areas to keep water refreshing. If your horse seems off during feed changes or has health conditions like insulin resistance, contact your veterinarian before making significant adjustments.

Visit us for premium alfalfa hay and Electro Dex Electrolytes—we’re here to help keep your horses cool, healthy, and ready for summer trails or shows. Have questions? Stop by or give us a call!