Looking after your horses in the winter
Winter can bring extra challenges for horse owners, but with proper care and attention, your horse can stay healthy, comfortable, and happy during the colder months. Here’s our guide on how to look after your horse during winter.
Do horses huddle in winter?
In winter, horses tend to conserve energy and stay warm by seeking shelter, huddling together, and reducing activity. In windy conditions, they may lower or tuck their heads away to shield themselves.
You may find that your horses stand close together, they are social animals, and in cold conditions, they may naturally gather together to share body heat for warmth.
Your horses’ activity levels may drop slightly, this is normal as horses generally slow down in the winter. Horses might spend more time standing or lying down to conserve energy and warmth, especially during colder nights.
How to keep horses healthy in winter
Whilst horses are designed to live out and can regulate their temperature well in cold temperatures, they do need protection from harsh weather, including snow, rain, and wind. Ensure your horse has access to a stable, field shelter, or natural windbreak where they can escape the elements. If your horse is kept outdoors, make sure the shelter is dry, draught-free, and large enough for them to move around comfortably.
Horses will grow a thicker coat in winter to help keep warm, but you may still need to provide extra protection, especially if your horse is clipped or spends a lot of time outside. Use a waterproof turnout rug to keep them dry, or provide a well-ventilated stable with a dry bedding area. Always check your horse regularly for any signs of discomfort or dampness. As each horse is different it’s important to note overheating can also be a concern. Ensure that your horse’s rug is appropriate for the temperature, and remove layers if they’re sweating excessively.
Read more winter care advice for horses.
How to keep horses warm in winter
Horses can tolerate temperatures at or below freezing (32°F) if there's no wind or moisture. However, prolonged exposure to cold, wet, or windy conditions can cause hypothermia.
Horses and livestock need extra care in the winter, such as adequate shelter to escape bad weather, extra feed as grass can be sparse, and regular checks on water troughs to keep them clear of ice. Give added protection with a waterproof rug, and ensure they have access to dry standing areas, out of the mud.
Farmers and smallholders should give extra consideration to young animals and whether they need extra protection from the cold weather.
How to keep horses safe in winter
Ensuring your horse remains safe during the colder months requires a bit of extra care and attention. By taking proactive steps in shelter, nutrition, and general well-being, you can help your horse thrive through winter while minimising risks associated with cold temperatures, icy conditions, and potential health issues.
- Good shelter - horses and ponies kept outside need access to shelter, and constant fresh water and some may need a waterproof rug to protect them from cold and wet weather.
- Extra food - they may graze more and if the pasture is limited or of poor quality, consider providing additional forage and ensure your horse is receiving the correct vitamins and minerals to support their health during the colder months.
- Plenty of water - horses need plenty of fresh water throughout the winter to stay hydrated, but cold water can discourage them from drinking. Provide water that’s clean, free from ice, and at a comfortable temperature. In extreme cold, consider using a water heater or water buckets to prevent freezing.
- Regular checks - if it's wet and muddy, regularly check hooves, for problems such as abscesses and loose shoes, and legs, for any signs of mud fever.
- Don’t overwork - when riding in the winter, beware of getting your horse sweated up as they can easily catch a chill.
- Be seen - always wear reflective clothing when riding on the roads.
Common winter poisons for horses
A number of common plants and other substances are poisonous to horses and other equines. Here are a few to look out for:
- Ragwort - contains alkaloids and can cause liver failure and death in horses
- Rodent poisons - also known as ‘rodenticides’ prevent blood clotting, which can lead to uncontrolled bleeding and death
- Yew tree - contains the toxin Taxine, which can lead to muscle tremors, difficulty breathing or sudden collapsing and death, often within a few hours
- Mouldy hay or feed - which is more likely to develop in damp conditions. It's important to regularly inspect grazing areas, stables, and hay supplies to ensure they are free from harmful substances and prevent accidental poisoning.
Never ‘watch and wait’
If you suspect your horse has been poisoned, contact a vet immediately.