Baby, It's Cold Outside!

As most of the country deals with a deep freeze, I thought it would be a good time to address caring for our older equines during inclement weather.  Senior horses often become more susceptible to the harsh effects of cold weather. Proper winter care is essential to ensure our older horses remain healthy and comfortable during the frigid months. Let’s explore key areas to focus on: forage, shelter, water, movement, and blanketing.

Keep the Forage Flowing

The best way to keep a horse warm in winter is by providing plenty of hay. As horses digest hay, they generate internal heat, which helps maintain their body temperature. Senior horses might not always have the best teeth, so if chewing hay is a challenge, consider offering soaked hay cubes or pellets as an alternative. It’s important to ensure they’re getting enough calories to maintain their weight, as older horses can sometimes struggle to keep pounds on during the winter.

Shelter from the Storm

While horses are hardy animals, senior horses often appreciate a little extra protection from the elements. A sturdy run-in shed or stall can provide much-needed relief from biting winds, freezing rain, or heavy snow. Make sure the shelter is large enough for all your horses to use without crowding and that it’s kept clean and dry. If your senior horse has mobility issues or arthritis, a warm, dry place to rest is especially important.

Water: Don’t Let It Freeze!

Fresh, unfrozen water is absolutely essential during winter. Horses are less likely to drink if their water is too cold, which increases their risk of dehydration and colic. Heated water buckets or tank heaters can be lifesavers (literally!) in ensuring your horse stays hydrated. Be sure to check the water regularly to confirm the heaters are working and there are no electrical issues.

To Blanket or Not to Blanket?

Blanketing senior horses is a topic of much debate, and the answer almost always depends on the individual horse. If your older horse has a thin coat, struggles to maintain weight, or has a health condition that makes staying warm difficult, a well-fitting blanket can be a big help. However, if your horse is healthy, has a thick winter coat, and access to shelter, he might not need one. Remember, if you do decide to blanket, check under it regularly to ensure the horse isn’t overheating or developing skin issues.

You've Got to Move It!

Keeping horses moving during cold weather is essential for their overall health, particularly for older horses. For senior horses, regular, gentle exercise can help manage arthritis and maintain mobility, preventing further deterioration of joint health. Additionally, activity promotes digestion and supports a healthy metabolism, both of which are crucial during winter when horses may be consuming higher-calorie feeds to stay warm. Encouraging turnout, hand-walking, or light riding ensures they stay active and comfortable even in chilly conditions.

Know Your Horse

Every horse is different, and senior horses often come with their own unique quirks and needs. Pay attention to your horses' behavior and body condition. Are they shivering? Losing weight? Acting differently than usual? These can all be signs that they need more support to stay comfortable in the cold.

Winter care for older horses might require a little extra effort, but the reward is seeing your senior horse happy, healthy, and thriving even on the frostiest days. With proper forage, shelter, fresh water, activity, and maybe a cozy blanket, you can make sure your golden oldie weathers the storm!

If you’ve found success with a particular winter care routine for your senior horse, we’d love to hear your tips! Share them in the comments below to help fellow horse owners ensure their equine friends stay warm and healthy all winter long.