Kentucky Performance Products: Ideal Body Condition Score for Winter

Do you know how to tell your horse’s body condition score? Do you have a feeding program in place for the winter? Kentucky Performance Products has a helpful visual.

Courtesy of Kentucky Performance Products. Click link below for full chart.

As the winter season approaches, it is time to evaluate your horse’s body condition score.  It is important to make sure your horse begins winter in the best condition possible.  If your horse has special needs it may be necessary to alter your feeding program during the winter months.

In general, a score of 5 is considered good, but there are some cases where a leaner or fatter condition may be desirable. Studies have shown that broodmares with a higher score had higher conception rates than mares with a lower score. With older horses it may be more beneficial if the horse has a higher score to create a buffer for times of stress and illness. However, if your older horse suffers from arthritis or laminitis he or she may do better without extra weight. Performance horses can vary in range depending on the discipline. Polo, eventing, race, and endurance horses might be fit with a lower body condition score of 4, while a dressage, hunter, or jumper may be fit with a score of 6.

It is important to work with your veterinarian and trainer to determine the best condition for your individual horse.

Click here to download a copy of the body condition score reference chart.

Article written by KPP staff.

Copyright (C) 2016 Kentucky Performance Products, LLC.   All rights reserved.

Article sponsored by Neigh-Lox Advanced; healthy digestive tract formula. Blend of ingredients that work synergistically to support both a healthy foregut and hindgut so horses utilize feed more efficiently, feel better, and eat better.

When health issues arise, always seek the advice of a licensed veterinarian who can help you choose the correct course of action for your horse. Supplements are intended to maintain healthy systems and support recovery and healing. They are not intended to treat or cure illness or injury.

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