As the weather cools and the days get shorter, autumn brings a fresh set of challenges for our horses. While it’s a beautiful time of year in the Snowy Mountains, the seasonal shift can affect everything from gut health to skin condition — and being aware of these changes is the best way to keep your horse comfortable and safe.
In this video, our Dr Grace Butler breaks down the most important autumn health risks and what you can do to stay ahead of them.
Colic: Why Autumn Increases the Risk
Colic can happen at any time, but autumn brings a few extra triggers:
- Sudden feed changes as pastures dry off
- Reduced water intake as temperatures drop
- Less movement if horses are stabled more or ridden less
- Cooler nights slowing gut motility
Early signs to watch for include pawing, looking at the flank, restlessness, or reduced manure output. If something feels “off,” trust your instincts — early intervention makes all the difference.
Laminitis: The Hidden Autumn Danger
Many owners associate laminitis with spring, but autumn can be just as risky.
Why?
- Cool nights + sunny days = high-sugar grass
- Horses naturally gain weight before winter
- Metabolic horses (EMS/PPID) are especially vulnerable
If your horse is prone to laminitis, autumn is the time to tighten up grazing management, monitor weight closely, and keep an eye out for subtle signs like short strides, heat in the feet, or a stronger digital pulse.
️ Skin Conditions: Greasy Heel & Mud Fever
Autumn often brings damp paddocks, morning dew, and fluctuating temperatures — the perfect environment for skin issues.
Common problems include:
- Greasy heel / mud fever
- Rain scald
- Dermatitis from wet-dry cycles
Keeping legs clean and dry, clipping feathers on affected horses, and using barrier creams when needed can help prevent flare-ups. If you notice swelling, heat, or lameness, it’s time for a vet check.
Parasites: Time to Review Your Plan
Autumn is a key time to reassess parasite control.
As temperatures cool, some worms become more active, and horses may be exposed to higher parasite burdens. Instead of routine worming, we recommend:
- Faecal egg counts (FECs) to guide treatment
- Targeted worming based on results
- Good paddock hygiene to reduce reinfection
This approach protects your horse and helps slow resistance to worming medications.
Keeping Your Horse Healthy This Autumn
A few simple steps can make a big difference:
- Maintain consistent feeding routines
- Monitor water intake
- Keep an eye on pasture changes
- Check legs and skin regularly
- Stay on top of parasite testing
- Call us early if something doesn’t look right
Autumn is a beautiful season to enjoy your horse — and with a little extra awareness, you can help them stay healthy and comfortable all the way into winter.
If you have any concerns or want personalised advice for your horse, our Snowy Vets team is always here to help.
📍 Snowy Vets – Cooma & Jindabyne – 6455 7800
🐾 Compassionate care for every dog, every day.