The Benefits and Drawbacks of Blanketing Horses During Winter

As winter rolls in, horse owners must decide whether to blanket their horses. This choice can greatly affect the horses' well-being. In this post, we will explore both the advantages and disadvantages of blanketing horses during winter, helping you make the best decision for your equine friends.

Understanding Horse Physiology

Horses are naturally built to handle cold weather. They develop a thick winter coat that provides insulation against cold temperatures. However, several factors—such as age, health, and living conditions—can influence how a horse copes with winter.

When thinking about blanketing, it’s important to assess your horse's individual needs. For instance, older or less healthy horses might need more protection than young, healthy ones.

Pros of Blanketing Horses

1. Enhanced Warmth

One major benefit of blanketing is the added warmth it provides. High-quality horse blankets can maintain a horse's body temperature, especially in temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This is essential for older horses or those with diabetes or arthritis, as they may struggle to regulate their body heat.

2. Protection from Elements

Blankets shield horses from rain, snow, and wind, all of which can threaten their health. A well-fitted waterproof blanket can keep a horse dry even in heavy rain, ensuring they remain comfortable and healthy.

3. Reduced Stress on the Body

When horses are kept warm, they spend less energy trying to maintain body heat. This is particularly helpful for those in heavy work or recovering from injuries, as it allows them to conserve energy for other essential activities. The energy conservation can improve overall performance, especially in competition scenarios.

4. Improved Coat Condition

Blanketing can protect the coat from getting matted or damaged by harsh weather. A fitted blanket keeps the coat clean and free of debris. For show horses, maintaining a shiny, well-groomed coat can be crucial leading up to competitions. This can boost their appearance by more than 20%, enhancing their chances of performing well.

Cons of Blanketing Horses

1. Overheating Risk

A significant drawback of blanketing is the risk of overheating. Horses generate a considerable amount of heat, and a blanket that is too heavy can make them too warm. Sweating can occur, leading to chilling once the blanket is removed. Studies show that around 30% of horse owners report cases of overheating among blanketed horses.

2. Dependence on Blankets

Regular use of blankets can make horses reliant on them for warmth. This is a considerable concern if the blankets are unavailable or if the horse has to adjust to a warmer climate. Horses used to blanketing may struggle to adapt.

3. Cost and Maintenance

Investing in quality blankets can be pricey, often ranging from $100 to $300 each. Additionally, these blankets require regular cleaning and maintenance, which can increase the overall cost of winter horse care.

Factors to Consider When Deciding to Blanket

1. Horse's Age and Health

Evaluate your horse's age, health, and breed. Older horses or those with health challenges generally benefit more from blanketing than young, healthy horses, particularly in extreme weather conditions.

2. Living Conditions

Consider your horse's living conditions. Horses that are kept in barns or have access to shelter may not need a blanket as much as those in open fields during winter storms. For example, horses living in open pastures without shelter may be at a higher risk for hypothermia.

3. Weather Conditions

Keep an eye on the weather conditions where you live. In areas experiencing harsh cold, heavy snow, or consistent rain, blanketing might be necessary. Conversely, during milder winter days, it’s better to allow natural temperature regulation by removing the blanket.

4. Activity Level

Think about your horse's activity level. Those in regular work, such as riding or training, may need a blanket to help maintain their body temperature. In contrast, horses that are less active might not require one.

Making the Right Choice

Personally, I choose to not blanket my horses. My horses have constant access to shelter which allows them to get out of the harsh conditions. You may sometimes see horses insultaing, which occurs when the snow accumulates on their back. When this occurs this is a good sign because it means that heat is not escaping from their body. If I were on the show circuit I would likely have a different opinion about blanketing. This is because my horses would be in and out of heated arenas and it would be more difficult to regulate thier body temperature with their thick winter coats. It's all about how you plan to use your horses during the winter months, but whichever route you choose it is important to stick with it through the duration of the winter months.