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Winter Horse Care: Keeping Your Equine Partner Thriving

Last updated: December 19, 2024

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

While horses are naturally equipped to handle colder temperatures, their comfort and well-being in winter depend on various factors, including their age, health, coat condition, and the severity of the weather. Even mild winters can be tough on some of our equine companions, especially those without thick coats.

I’ve faced the challenges firsthand, from frozen water buckets to horses with naturally thin coats or those kept in conditions that prevent them from growing a winter coat. In this guide to winter horse care, I’ll share my experience and research to help you ensure your horse stays comfortable, healthy, and happy all winter long.

A horse with a winter blanket standing in a snowy field, illustrating the importance of winter horse care.
Ensure your horse stays warm and comfortable this winter with proper care and attention.

Winter Feeding & Nutrition

  • Ample Forage: Hay is a horse’s primary source of warmth and energy during winter. We always make sure our horses have plenty of good-quality hay available, typically increasing the amount to 2-3% of their body weight to compensate for reduced grazing opportunities and the increased energy they need to stay warm.
  • Supplemental Grain: Horses in work, those with higher metabolisms, or those struggling to maintain weight may need additional calories from grain. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
  • Electrolyte Balance: Even in cooler weather, horses lose electrolytes through sweat and exertion. We offer a salt block or mineral supplement for proper hydration and electrolyte balance.
A horse eating hay in the winter, emphasizing the importance of providing ample forage during colder months.
Provide plenty of good-quality hay to keep your horse warm and nourished during winter.

Providing Shelter and Water in Winter

Unfrozen Water Access: Ensure your horse has access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times. In colder climates, heated buckets or tank heaters are essential to prevent water from freezing. Check water sources frequently, especially during extreme cold.

Wind & Weather Protection: A sturdy horse shelter, such as a three-sided run-in shed or a well-ventilated barn, is essential for protecting your horse from harsh winter elements like wind, rain, and snow. As the Montana State University Extension advises, a three-sided shelter with a roof is ideal for providing adequate protection while allowing your horse the freedom to move in and out as needed.

Dry & Comfortable Bedding: Damp bedding can lead to chills and discomfort. Provide ample dry bedding, especially in stalls, to keep your horse warm and cozy.

A horse drinking from a heated water bucket in the winter, highlighting the importance of unfrozen water access.
Ensure your horse has access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times, even in freezing temperatures.

Shelter & Water: Winter Necessities

  • Unfrozen Water Access: Ensure your horse can access fresh, unfrozen water. In colder climates, heated buckets or tank heaters are essential to prevent water from freezing. Check water sources frequently, especially during extreme cold.
  • Wind & Weather Protection: A sturdy shelter protects your horse from harsh elements like wind, rain, and snow. A three-sided run-in shed or a well-ventilated barn offers a comfortable retreat. As the Montana State University Extension advises, a three-sided shelter with a roof is ideal for providing adequate protection while allowing your horse the freedom to move in and out as needed.
  • Dry & Comfortable Bedding: Damp bedding can lead to chills and discomfort. Provide ample dry bedding, especially in stalls, to keep your horse warm and cozy. For more information, check out this article: Horses and other livestock can thrive in cold weather.
A horse wearing a winter blanket, demonstrating proper blanketing for cold weather protection.
Choose the right blanket for your horse’s needs and ensure it fits properly to prevent discomfort and injury.

Blanketing Your Horse: A Careful Consideration

  • Evaluate Individual Needs: The decision to blanket depends on your horse’s age, coat condition, health, and the severity of the weather. Some horses, like those clipped or with thinner coats, may require blanketing even in milder winters. We blanket our horses year-round because they’re stall-kept and don’t grow thick winter coats.
  • Regular Blanket Checks: If you choose to blanket your horse, ensure the blanket fits properly, is dry, and doesn’t cause rubs or discomfort. Check your horse regularly for any signs of overheating or skin irritation.
  • Prioritize Turnout: Horses benefit from fresh air and exercise even with blankets. Turnout time is crucial for their physical and mental well-being, encouraging natural movement and socialization. As the University of Minnesota Extension notes in their guide on “Caring for your horse in the winter“, “Regular exercise helps maintain healthy circulation and muscle tone, which are especially important during colder months.”
A rider and horse enjoying a winter trail ride, emphasizing the importance of adjusting exercise routines for cold weather conditions.
Continue to enjoy riding in the winter, but be mindful of icy patches and adjust your intensity based on the weather and your horse’s comfort.

Winter Exercise & Turnout: Adapting to the Conditions

  • Warm-up & Cool-down: Extend warm-up and cool-down periods for your horse during cold weather to prevent muscle injuries. Start with a brisk walk and gradually increase the intensity of your ride.
  • Assess Footing Carefully: Be aware of hazards like icy patches or deep snow. Choose trails or arenas with safe footing, and avoid riding on frozen ground if possible.
  • Adjust Intensity: Listen to your horse’s cues and adjust your riding plans based on their comfort levels and the weather conditions. Shorten your ride or reduce the intensity if necessary.
A farrier providing hoof care to a horse in the winter, highlighting the importance of regular hoof maintenance during colder months.
Schedule routine farrier visits to keep your horse’s hooves healthy and ensure proper traction on icy or snowy surfaces.

Additional Tips for Optimal Winter Horse Care

  • Hoof Health: Regular hoof care is vital year-round, especially in winter. Schedule routine farrier visits to address any issues caused by wet or icy conditions, and ensure your horse’s hooves are properly trimmed and shod for optimal traction. The Montana State University Extension’s “Winter Care of Horses” article provides more detailed information on hoof care during winter.
  • Consistent Grooming: Grooming your horse removes dirt and debris that can trap moisture and contribute to skin problems. It’s also an excellent opportunity to bond with your horse and check for injuries or health concerns.
  • Monitor Body Condition: Assess your horse’s weight regularly and adjust their diet as needed to ensure they maintain a healthy condition throughout the winter. The University of Minnesota Extension’s guide on “Caring for your horse in the winter” offers valuable insights into assessing your horse’s body condition and adjusting their diet based on their activity level and the weather.
  • Check for Signs of Dehydration: Even in winter, horses can become dehydrated. Monitor their water intake, and check for signs of dehydration such as dry gums, sunken eyes, and decreased skin elasticity. Encourage drinking by offering warm water or adding electrolytes to their water.
  • Prevent Mud and Ice Build-up: Wet and icy conditions can create hazardous footing and lead to skin problems like scratches and rain rot. Regularly clean your horse’s hooves and legs, and consider using protective boots or wraps if necessary.
  • Provide Adequate Ventilation: While it’s important to keep your horse warm, ensure their shelter has proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of moisture and ammonia fumes.
  • Watch for Weight Loss: Horses may burn more calories in winter to stay warm. Monitor their body condition closely and adjust their feed intake to maintain a healthy weight.
  • Consider a Winter Checkup: Schedule a veterinary checkup before the winter season to ensure your horse is in good health and address any potential concerns before the cold weather sets in.
  • For more information on how horses and other livestock can thrive in cold weather, check out this article from PennState: Horses and other livestock can thrive in cold weather.

FAQs

How much hay should I feed my horse in the winter?

How often should I check on my horse’s water in freezing temperatures?

Check water sources multiple times a day to ensure they are unfrozen and accessible. Consider using heated buckets or tank heaters.

When should I blanket my horse?

Deciding when to blanket your horse depends on factors like your horse’s age, coat, health, and the severity of the weather. Consult your vet for personalized advice.

What are the signs of hypothermia in horses?

Signs include shivering, lethargy, cold ears and legs, and a slow heart rate. If you suspect hypothermia, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Can I ride my horse in the snow?

Yes, you can ride your horse in the snow, but take precautions. Ensure your horse has proper hoof care for traction, avoid icy patches, and adjust your ride’s intensity based on conditions and your horse’s comfort.

Conclusion

Following these winter horse care essentials can help your equine partner stay happy, healthy, and comfortable during the colder months. Remember, every horse is different, so pay attention to their needs and adjust your care routine accordingly.

If you have any concerns about your horse’s health or well-being during the winter, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian or a qualified equine professional. Explore more about seasonal horse feeding and care.

Do you have any other winter horse care tips or experiences you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Miles Henry

About the Author: Miles Henry

Miles Henry is a lifelong horseman with over 25 years of experience owning and training Thoroughbred racehorses. He shares expert insights from his personal experiences growing up with horses, including Quarter Horses and Appaloosas, and currently owns seven Thoroughbreds in training.

Learn more about Miles Henry