Mixed Grazing of Horses and Cattle for Pasture and Parasite Management

Mixed grazing of horses and cattle enhances forage utilization and reduces gastrointestinal parasite loads. Horses graze coarser, drier forages and can consume regrowth, while cattle prefer intermediate-height vegetation. This complementary grazing behavior improves pasture quality and reduces wastage when managed properly. Host-specific parasites are diluted in mixed systems, breaking transmission cycles. At GAEC du Chaudron, 130 Limousin cows and five Bresse mares are managed together, enabling synchronized calving and weaning. Horses assist in herding and improve pasture use through rotational grazing. The system supports agroecological principles through species mixity and efficient resource use.