How does a pony's diet change from summer to winter?

A pony's diet changes from summer to winter primarily due to the availability and quality of forage. In winter, grass growth significantly decreases, and its nutritional value often diminishes, making it less available for ponies to graze on. As a result, ponies require more hay during this season to ensure they receive adequate nutrition. Hay provides the necessary bulk and nutrients that grass cannot supply during the colder months, where grazing time is reduced and grass quality may be poor.

By relying more on hay in winter, owners can maintain their ponies' health, preventing weight loss and ensuring they have enough energy for daily activities. In contrast, during the summer months, grass is typically abundant and provides sufficient nutrition for ponies, often making additional feeding unnecessary. This seasonal change reflects the need to adjust feeding practices to suit the different conditions ponies face throughout the year.