We have compiled 11 top tips to help you mange your pony's weight.

• Get your pony’s teeth checked so they can chew food properly and without pain.
   
• Use a weigh tape and learn to ‘fat score’ your pony. This is recommended fortnightly.
   
• Most ponies will get enough (often too many) calories from grass alone so they do not need extra hard feed if in light work.
   
• Weigh out any hay or hard feed and check if it is appropriate with either your vet or a feed specialist.
   
• Feed according to work done and make any changes in diet gradually.
   
• Steady regular exercise will assist with weight control - Go out for a hack.
   
• Is that rug necessary? If always kept warm & dry then excess calories are not burnt off but laid down as fat.
   
• Control grass intake. If your pony is overweight or a ‘good doer’ then try either strip grazing the paddock or fence off a U-shaped area so they move about more. Consider grazing with other ponies or sheep. Grazing muzzles work well for some ponies.
   
• If overweight aim for a steady weight loss, avoid crash diets and starvation paddocks. Fibre is still needed little and often to promote a healthy gut.
   
• Consider soaking hay for 12 hours to reduce its sugar content, however, a vitamin/mineral supplement may then be required.
   
• Always ensure access to clean water

For additional top tips on diet, please speak with one of our equine team.