Introduction
Spring in Australia brings fresh green grass, longer days, and brighter mornings. For horse owners, it is a beautiful season, but also a risky one. The rapid growth of spring pasture leads to higher sugar levels in the grass, known as non-structural carbohydrates, or NSCs. These sugars can trigger painful laminitis, especially in horses that are overweight or have metabolic conditions.
Laminitis prevention is all about timing, awareness, and routine. With a few practical changes to turnout, feeding, and daily checks, you can enjoy the lush season while keeping your horse comfortable and sound.
Signs and Triggers of Spring Laminitis
Laminitis occurs when the sensitive tissues inside the hoof become inflamed. This causes pain, heat, and lameness, and in severe cases can lead to long-term damage. Horses most at risk are those with a cresty neck, a history of laminitis, or conditions such as Cushing’s or insulin resistance.
Common signs include warm hooves, a strong digital pulse, stiffness when turning, or an unwillingness to walk on hard ground. The trigger in spring is usually excess sugar from new grass. When a horse eats more NSC than its system can handle, gut bacteria change, releasing toxins that affect blood flow in the hooves. Sudden weather shifts, irregular feeding, and lack of movement can all add to the risk.
When NSC Levels Peak in Spring Grass
The sugar content of grass changes throughout the day. Grass produces sugar through photosynthesis, and when nights are cool, the plant cannot use up all that energy. This means that sugar levels are highest during sunny days that are followed by cool nights.
In most Australian regions, NSC levels are at their highest in the late afternoon. Grazing in the early morning, after the dew has lifted, is usually safer. Keep an eye on your local weather, since even a few cold nights can make the grass risky again. If nights fall below five degrees, it is better to limit pasture time or provide low-sugar hay instead.
Using Strip Grazing, Muzzles, and Track Systems
Controlling access to grass is the most effective way to reduce laminitis risk. Strip grazing lets you divide your paddock with temporary fencing, giving your horse small sections of grass at a time. This approach controls intake while encouraging movement. Move the fence forward a little each day, and rest the grazed areas to allow regrowth.
Grazing muzzles work well for horses that need turnout but cannot handle full access to pasture. They reduce grass intake while allowing the horse to move, socialise, and exercise. Always ensure the muzzle fits comfortably and allows the horse to drink easily.
If space allows, create a track system, sometimes called a paddock paradise layout. This design places hay, water, and shelter along a loop around the paddock, encouraging horses to move naturally while keeping them off the richest central grass.
These systems only work well when the paddock stays clean. Regular manure removal prevents nutrient overload and supports pasture health. Tools like the Paddock Blade make this easy, saving hours of work while keeping your grazing areas clean and safe.
Feed Swaps and Body Condition Checks
Spring grass already provides plenty of calories, so avoid adding more sugar or starch through feed. Replace rich hay with tested low NSC hay or mature grass hay. If you feed lucerne, use small amounts mixed with plain hay. Choose a low-starch balancer or vitamin and mineral supplement to support nutrition without excess energy.
Body condition scoring once a week helps you catch changes early. Run your hands over the ribs, crest, and tail head to check for fat pads. A cresty neck or soft, uneven fat deposits are early signs of trouble. Adjust feed and turnout before weight gain becomes obvious.
A Weekly Safe Grazing Routine
Monday: Check your horse’s weight and body condition. Note any changes.
Tuesday: Move your strip grazing fence or rotate to a rested section of pasture.
Wednesday: Remove manure from grazing areas with your Paddock Blade to keep nutrients balanced and reduce flies.
Thursday: Inspect fences, water troughs, and shade areas as temperatures rise.
Friday: Review your feeding plan and remove any high sugar treats or unnecessary supplements.
Saturday: Schedule exercise or groundwork to promote circulation and help manage weight.
Sunday: Record your week’s grazing times, note weather patterns, and plan adjustments for the coming week.
A routine like this keeps grazing under control and helps you react quickly to seasonal changes.
Consult your vet before changing any nutritional routines!
FAQs
When is spring pasture most risky for laminitis in Australia?
The risk is highest when days are sunny and nights are cold, usually below five degrees. Grass stores more sugar in these conditions, especially during the first few weeks of growth.
Does morning or night turnout lower NSC risk?
Morning turnout, after the dew has lifted, is generally safer. Grass uses up some of its sugar during the night, so levels are lower than in the afternoon.
Which forages and supplements help lower sugar intake?
Low sugar hay, such as mature grass hay or hay tested below ten percent NSC, is safest. Supplements with magnesium and chromium can support metabolic balance, but always consult your vet first.
Can I use a grazing muzzle every day?
Yes, as long as it fits well and your horse can drink comfortably. Check daily for rubbing and give your horse short breaks without it to rest the skin.
Should I mow my paddock to manage sugar levels?
Mowing can help control growth, but freshly cut grass still holds sugar. Keep horses off freshly mown areas for a day or two before returning them to graze.
Conclusion
Spring laminitis in Australia is a serious concern, but it can be managed with planning and care. By watching the weather, adjusting grazing times, and keeping a close eye on body condition, you can protect your horse from sugar spikes and painful hoof inflammation.
Controlled grazing, low sugar forage, and regular exercise all make a big difference. Keep paddocks clean, monitor changes, and use practical tools like the Paddock Blade to save time and reduce pasture stress. With steady routines and awareness, your horse can enjoy the freshness of spring safely and soundly.
