As one calendar year draws to a close and another begins, many people resolve to take steps to improve their lives. And while the wisdom of some resolutions remains questionable—such as paying off your credit card in full every month … with another credit card—others likely do have a positive impact on peoples’ lives.

According to USA.gov, some of the most common resolutions Americans make each year focus on improving their health or maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating and drinking healthier, exercising more, and quitting smoking. So why not resolve to do the same for your horse? Here are five resolutions to help your horse stay healthy and happy through the New Year.

Keep a Close Eye on Carbs

Ah, those soluble carbohydrates! They’re the bane of some peoples’ existences (think hot, freshly baked white bread … yum!). Like humans, many horses love their easily digestible carbohydrates, which can be problematic for some—especially easy keepers or those with metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and/or chronic laminitis.

So, resolve to keep a close eye on the nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) concentrations of your hay and grain with feed analyses. And if you’re concerned your horse is getting too many NSCs, consider soaking his hay or using a grazing muzzle. And, as always, consult your veterinarian or equine nutritionist if you have any questions about your horse’s diet