Winter brings a new set of challenges for every horse owner. From managing muddy fields and frozen water to maintaining condition through the colder months, preparation is key to keeping your horse happy and healthy. Whether your horse is stabled, turned out, or a bit of both, here’s everything you need to know to make the season easier on you and your horse.
Feeding for Warmth and Condition
Cold weather means your horse uses more energy to stay warm, so their diet needs to reflect that. For horses turned out in winter, increasing forage is the simplest way to support condition — hay and haylage generate internal heat through digestion and keep the gut working efficiently.
If your horse struggles to hold weight, introduce conditioning feeds gradually. Mash feeds or soaked fibre blends are ideal when it’s cold, as they add warmth and moisture to the diet. Avoid sudden dietary changes, and always make sure fresh water is available.
Zoar’s Tip:
Keep a good supply of haynets, stable buckets and feed scoops on hand for winter feeding routines. Check your feed storage regularly for damp or mould, as moisture builds quickly in cold, enclosed spaces.
Hydration in Cold Weather
Many horses drink less in cold weather, especially when their water is icy. Dehydration can quickly lead to impaction colic, so it’s crucial to monitor intake. Break surface ice on water troughs several times a day or use insulated or heated water buckets if possible. Adding a splash of warm water or soaked feed can also encourage drinking.
Rugging Your Horse Correctly
Rugs are one of the most debated topics of winter horse care. The key is to rug for your horse’s needs, not for your comfort level. Native breeds often cope well unrugged, provided they have shelter and access to forage, while clipped or older horses may need more protection.
Choose rugs with breathable, waterproof outer layers and ensure they fit properly to avoid rubbing or overheating. Always remove rugs daily to check for weight loss, sores or dirt build-up underneath.
Zoar’s Tip:
Browse Zoar’s selection of turnout rugs, stable rugs and lightweight liners to help tailor warmth to changing weather conditions. Having a few options on rotation makes it easier to keep horses dry and comfortable.
Stabling and Shelter
If your horse is stabled, ventilation is just as important in winter as in summer. Closed doors and windows trap ammonia from urine, which irritates the lungs and increases the risk of coughs. Keep bedding clean and dry, removing wet patches daily, and ensure there’s fresh air circulation without direct draughts.
For horses living out, a natural or man-made shelter is essential. A field shelter provides protection from wind and rain while still allowing movement and social interaction. Make sure it’s bedded with straw or shavings in prolonged wet weather and that footing remains firm and mud-free.
Zoar’s Tip:
Stock up on rubber matting, shavings and stable tools to maintain a dry, warm environment that’s easy to clean through the darker months.
Managing Mud and Hoof Health
Mud fever and thrush are common in winter, especially for horses turned out in wet fields. Regular hoof cleaning and drying are essential. Pick out feet daily, check for cracks, and use barrier creams on heels and fetlocks to prevent mud-related irritation. Rotate turnout areas if possible to reduce excessive mud build-up.
If your horse is shod, check that shoes and clenches are secure after walking on hard or frozen ground.
Zoar’s Tip:
Zoar’s range of hoof picks, brushes, balms and barrier creams can help maintain healthy hooves through wet, muddy months.
Exercise and Turnout in Shorter Days
Keeping horses active is key to maintaining fitness and mental wellbeing, even when the weather limits riding. Shorter sessions, lunging or groundwork can help maintain movement on icy or boggy days. Reflective gear is essential for hacking in low light, and waterproof exercise sheets help keep muscles warm in wind or rain.
If turnout time is reduced due to field conditions, provide stable toys or hay nets to prevent boredom and encourage natural foraging behaviour.
Zoar’s Tip:
Stock up on high-visibility rugs, reflective leg bands and waterproof exercise sheets to stay safe and visible during winter rides.
Winter Grooming and Coat Care
Even if your horse isn’t clipped, regular grooming remains important in winter. Mud, sweat and dirt can quickly cause skin irritation when left under rugs. Use a rubber curry comb to lift dried mud and a soft brush for sensitive areas. If your horse is fully clipped, warm cloth grooming and regular rug changes help maintain coat condition.
Zoar’s Tip:
Zoar’s grooming collection includes body brushes, curry combs and mane conditioners ideal for winter coat maintenance. For stabled horses, a quick daily groom also helps with bonding and spotting early health issues.
Winter Health Checks
Colder weather can bring challenges for older horses or those with underlying conditions such as arthritis or respiratory issues. Keep up with farrier visits, dental checks and vaccinations, as winter often leads to routine lapses. Watch for changes in appetite, weight or demeanour — these are early signs your horse may be uncomfortable.
Zoar’s Tip:
Supplements for joint health, digestive balance and coat condition can make a noticeable difference through winter. Consult your vet before adding anything new to your horse’s diet.
Final Thoughts
Winter horse care is all about consistency and observation. With a steady routine, good-quality forage, dry bedding and proper rugging, your horse can thrive through the cold months. Preparation is everything — and with the right essentials, you’ll be ready for whatever the weather brings.
