The rising cost of hay, driven by a drought in summer 2025 that reduced hay production, has led to an increase in malnourished horses. Bransby Horses, a rescue charity in Lincolnshire, reported an unprecedented number of calls for help with animals suffering from poor nutrition.

Hay, which is dried grass used as winter feed, has seen its price nearly double—from £73 per tonne in December 2024 to £131 per tonne currently—according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. This price surge is making it difficult for horse owners to afford adequate feed, contributing to the welfare crisis.