Bed-Down produces premium dust-extracted horse bedding, to help keep your horse cosy and healthy all year round, including during the harsh winter months.
Caring for horses in winter requires special attention to ensure they stay healthy, comfortable and safe despite the season’s challenges. Winter weather can impact horses’ health and well-being, and each horse’s specific needs should be addressed based on their age, breed, coat, size, diet and the available shelter and equine bedding. Here are some essential winter care practices to help keep your horse in top condition as temperatures drop. Of course this is just basic, common sense advice – it’s crucial that you seek good professional advice from an equine expert based in your area.
1. Individualised care and weight monitoring
Every horse is unique, so it’s important to consider individual needs when planning winter care. Regularly check each horse’s weight, as fluctuations could signal changes in dietary needs, or health concerns. Underweight horses may require more forage, while overweight ones can benefit from slow feeders or small-holed hay nets to moderate their consumption without limiting access to forage.
2. Forage and fresh water
Access to forage is crucial in winter, helping horses generate internal warmth. Provide free access to quality hay or other forage to support their energy needs in the cold. In freezing temperatures, ensure fresh water is always available by checking and breaking ice in troughs or buckets two to three times daily.
3. Equine bedding
Ensure that you have plenty of horse bedding at the ready and that it’s the most suitable type for your horse(s). Bed-Down offer virtual yard visits, and our advisors will be pleased to match your particular horse to the most appropriate equine bedding.
4. Shelter and rugging
Proper shelter is a winter essential, whether it’s natural or man-made. Avoid over-rugging horses based on how cold you feel; horses are naturally resilient, with most adult horses comfortably withstanding temperatures between 5°C and 25°C. But they still rely on their owners for comfort and protection during colder months. If rugging is necessary, ensure it fits well and ensure it keeps dry.
5. Skin and Health Checks
Winter conditions like mud and moisture can increase the risk of skin conditions such as mud fever. Regularly inspect your horse’s legs and coat for any signs of skin irritation or infection, as early detection can prevent issues from worsening.
6. Planning and Daily Routine
Early planning can simplify winter care, especially during shorter days. Aim for an early morning check-in to maximise useful daylight if issues arise. Establish an emergency care plan with a trusted friend or neighbour in case you’re unable to care for your horse due to illness or weather. A checklist can help ensure winter readiness, including adequate shelter, companionship for your horse, sufficient feed and easy access to an equine vet.
For premium horse bedding in winter and throughout the year, ask your tack shop for Bed-Down. For information or advice, call us on 01986 785278 or write to us at info@bed-down.co.uk.
