10/20/2026
October pasture looks beautiful but there's something important happening underneath that pretty picture. ππ΄
As fall sets in, cool-season grasses can actually spike in nonstructural carbohydrates, especially on cold nights followed by sunny days. For most horses this is not a problem. But for horses that are insulin-resistant, prone to laminitis, or easy keepers, October pasture can be one of the riskiest times of year.
The visual cues that usually signal danger in spring, lush green growth, rapid flush, don't apply the same way in fall. The grass can look sparse and dried out while still carrying elevated sugar levels.
If you manage a horse with metabolic concerns, October is worth paying close attention to. π