“Hello, my four-year-old, 16.1hh, Irish Draught x Hanovarian has lost almost all of her condition over the last couple of months. Throughout the year our horses receive two feeds a day and hay twice a day in the colder winter months.  The previous owners said she lost a bit of condition last winter, and has never been the best hair grower, but this year has a substantial winter coat. Savannah is fully rugged also. The only difference between this winter and last is that she had the opportunity to freely come into the barn if she wanted, we don't have stables or field shelter and I think this may be a main reason. Over the last month or so, she hasn't been brought in as the roads have been far too icy for them to walk on. I brought her in today, for the first time in over a month and couldn't believe how bad she looked. We have a 14.2hh Highland x Arab, 16-year-old pony who also lives out and receives two feeds a day and is rugged who has perfect condition. I don't know whether I should begin to start working her while she is like this or wait until she has regained condition or will riding help? I'm really worried about her and don't know what to do as we have no stables to bring her in and they are in the most sheltered field available. Recently Savannah has changed from being an affectionate big horse to miserable and dismissive. She has a belly, but no condition at all! What can I do? Please help. Thanks, Maggie.”

H&C's expert Jenny Rudall replies: "Hi Maggie, it is not uncommon for horses to lose condition in the winter months and some horses do better than others.  It sounds like your mare has lost an abnormal amount of condition and therefore she needs to be checked.  I would get a vet out and have her teeth checked, get a worm count done and the vet will more than likely want to check her bloods to check if she is anaemic or has any type of virus.

After having her checked, it may be a good idea to assess her feed; most feed companies have a nutritionist on hand to talk you through correct types and amounts of feed suitable for her age and type.  She is still young and growing and I would wait until she has more condition on her before starting her in work.  This winter has been extremely harsh and if she is not doing well living out you may want to consider moving her to a place where stabling is an option or she has access to shelter.

I hope this helps good luck and let us know how Savannah gets on."