Autumn’s Arrival: The Cooling Off Period and the Risk of Colic

Ah, autumn! The season when the leaves start to turn, the air gets that crisp, refreshing edge, and our horses start growing in their winter coats. It’s a beautiful time of year, full of vibrant colors and cooler days that make riding feel like a dream. But, as the temperature dips and the season changes, there’s one thing on every horse owner’s mind: colic.

Colic is a word that sends a shiver down any horse lover’s spine. It’s a broad term for abdominal pain in horses, and it can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. While colic can occur at any time of the year, the transition into autumn brings a particular set of challenges that can increase the risk.

The Change in Temperature

One of the primary reasons colic becomes more of a concern in autumn is the fluctuating temperatures. Horses, much like us, need time to adjust to the colder weather. When the days are warm, but the nights suddenly drop to freezing, it can throw off their system. Some horses might not drink enough water because they don’t feel as thirsty in the cooler weather, leading to dehydration—a common trigger for colic. To help keep my horse‘s water intake up, I use Redmond’s Mineral Salt, which encourages them to drink more and stay hydrated.

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Changes in Diet

Autumn also means changes in diet. Pastures begin to thin out as the grass stops growing, and many horse owners start to supplement with hay. Switching from fresh pasture to dried hay can be a big adjustment for a horse‘s digestive system. If the transition isn’t managed carefully, it can lead to impaction colic, where the intestines become blocked.

Lack of Movement

As the weather cools, many horses spend more time in their stalls. While a cozy barn is lovely, less turnout time and reduced exercise can slow down their digestive system, leading to an increased risk of colic. Movement helps keep everything flowing smoothly in their gut, so even in cooler weather, it’s crucial to ensure your horse gets enough exercise.

What Can You Do?

So, how can you help your horse transition into autumn without falling prey to colic?

1. Monitor Water Intake: Make sure your horse is drinking plenty of water. I personally use Redmond’s Mineral Salt to encourage my horse to drink more and stay well-hydrated.
2. Gradual Dietary Changes: If you’re switching from pasture to hay, do it gradually. Introduce hay slowly, and consider adding a probiotic to help their gut adjust.
3. Regular Exercise: Keep your horse moving, even if it’s just a walk around the barn or turnout in a smaller paddock.
4. Check Their Environment: Remove fallen leaves and other potential hazards from your horse‘s pasture or turnout area.
5. Monitor for Early Signs: Keep a close eye on your horse for any early signs of colic, such as restlessness, pawing, or a lack of appetite. The earlier you catch it, the better the chances of a positive outcome.

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10/26/2026 06:43 am GMT

A Season to Enjoy—Safely

Autumn is a time of year to savor, with its golden hues and crisp, cool days. By taking a few precautions, you can help ensure that your horse enjoys the season as much as you do—without the worry of colic lurking around the corner. After all, there’s nothing quite like a ride through a forest of falling leaves, knowing that your horse is happy, healthy, and ready to take on the cooler days ahead.

So, grab your favorite cozy sweater, give your horse an extra pat, and enjoy everything autumn has to offer. Just remember, a little extra care now can go a long way in keeping your horse colic-free and ready to enjoy the season with you.

Happy autumn, and may your rides be cool and your horses content!