Horse Welfare: The importance of the 3 Fs

other livestock. But ideally they should be able to make friends with other horses.
If a horse has formed a bond with another horse they can become very distressed if they are separated so this should be avoided. This is true of other equine species too. Donkeys can be especially affected when they are separated from a companion and can become seriously ill if it occurs. 
When new horses are introduced into a group it is important to do it carefully so that injuries can be avoided. This can be done by grazing the new horse in the field next to the others. Removing the back shoes and monitoring the introduction can also reduce the risk of injuries occurring. Aggressive behaviours can be more common when horses are competing for resources such as food water or social contact. So it is important that there is enough for everyone. And of course the group should be monitored closely for signs of bullying.
Forage access to food and water
Forage provides fibre that is essential for the horses gut health reducing the risk of diseases such as gastric ulcers. It should make up the majority of the horses diet and can be provided through grass hay haylage or grass replacement products such as grass pellets. Horses are trickle feeders meaning that they eat little and often and this should be replicated if the horse cannot be turned out to graze for a period of time. 
The amount and type of forage provided should be based on the horses requirements. This will depend on age exercise levels body condition score and any underlying disease processes. For example a horse with poor teeth may require soaked grass pellets as they are unable to pick up and chew the grass or hay. 
Horses and ponies that are prone to laminitis may require grass restriction to prevent bouts. Alternative forage such as soaked hay should always be available. Other ways of restricting grazing while still allowing the horse to maintain trickle feeding include wearing a grazing muzzle providing a hay net with small holes or using a track system.
The quality and availability of forage changes throughout the year. A balancer should be provided yearround to ensure that the horse has all of the minerals and vitamins required for a healthy diet. The forage provided should always be of good quality and there must be access to fresh clean water.