Colder temperatures are now the norm in most areas. For the majority of horses, cold weather does not mean coming in from the cold, but rather being assisted to withstand the cold. From the owner’s standpoint, winter management gets very basic: routine health care, feed, water and shelter.
White horse on snow-covered terrain
For the majority of horses, cold weather does not mean coming in from the cold, but rather being assisted to withstand the cold.
© 2017 by American Farriers
Yet there are an amazing number of horses each winter that are abused as a result of one or more of these basic management principles being neglected. Please don't be the type of horse owner who confines horses in the barn 24/7 or turns horses out to pasture for long periods of time so they are out of sight and out of mind.
A healthy horse in the fall will factor into a healthy horse going into the winter. If your horse is free of parasites, in good flesh and properly immunized going into the winter, the greater the chance of your horse being an “easy keeper” during the winter. Emotions and welfare obligations aside, economics dictates that the cost of anthelmintics, veterinarian checkups and immunizations will more than pay for themselves in reduced feed costs through the stressful winter months. Work with your vet to set up a health program for each of your horses and stick with it.
Intake of water is very important for a healthy horse. Water should always be readily available to horses. Ideally, the water temperature should be between 45 degrees and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water is too cold, the horse may not drink enough to stay hydrated and healthy.
Other tips for keeping your horses healthy include:
- Gradually increase forage as grazing becomes less available. Forage in the form of good-quality hay will also provide additional warmth to your horse as it is digested.
- A combination of hay and grain may be required to meet the nutritional needs of the horse during cold weather.
- Horses should drink 6-10 gallons per day, and the more hay they eat, the more water they need to drink.
- Most horses prefer water between 45-65 F, so you may need a tank heater on colder days.
- If your horse decreases water consumption, adding table salt (1-2 tablespoons) to your horse’s grain may encourage water.
- If you plan to ride your horse, double your warm-up time to avoid injury.
Attention to proactive horse care during the winter months is important in having a sound and healthy horse later in the year. Careful attention to feeding, watering, housing, and care of horses during cold weather can make the difference between a healthy horse and one that suffers from illness and discomfort.