How do I know if my horse needs a blanket?

Quick Peek:

Is your horse shivering in the cold? Blanketing might be the solution, but when should you start? It depends on your horse’s hair coat and whether it’s been clipped. Horses with heavy hair coats can handle temperatures as low as 30°F, while those with moderate coats need a blanket below 40°F. Body-clipped horses should be blanketed below 60°F or in windy or rainy weather. Keep your equine friend warm and cozy this winter!

How to Know When Your Horse Needs a Blanket

As horse enthusiasts, we want to make sure our equine friends are comfortable and healthy all year round. One question that often arises is whether or not our horses need a blanket during the colder months. The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the temperature, your horse’s hair coat, and whether or not your horse is body clipped.

Body Clipped Horses

If your horse has been body clipped, it’s important to start blanketing when the temperature drops below 60° F, or anytime it’s rainy or windy. Body clipping removes the natural insulation provided by your horse’s coat, leaving them more susceptible to the cold. By blanketing your horse, you can help them stay warm and comfortable, even in the coldest weather.

Moderate Hair Coat Horses

If your horse has a moderate hair coat, you should start blanketing when the temperature drops below 40° F. Horses with a moderate hair coat have some natural insulation, but may still need extra protection during colder weather. By blanketing your horse, you can help them maintain their body heat and stay healthy and happy.

Heavy Hair Coat Horses

If your horse has a heavy hair coat, you can start blanketing when the temperature drops below 30° F. Horses with a heavy hair coat have excellent natural insulation, but may still need some extra protection during the coldest weather. By blanketing your horse, you can help them stay warm and comfortable, even in the most extreme temperatures.

It’s important to note that every horse is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Some horses may need a blanket at higher temperatures, while others may be comfortable without one at lower temperatures. Pay attention to your horse’s behavior and body language to determine if they are comfortable or not. If your horse is shivering, standing in a hunched position, or seems lethargic, they may be too cold and need a blanket.

On the other hand, if your horse is sweating excessively or seems restless, they may be too warm and need to have their blanket removed. It’s important to find the right balance for your horse, and to adjust their blanket as needed based on the weather and their individual needs.

By following these general guidelines, you can help ensure that your horse is comfortable and healthy during the colder months. Remember to pay attention to your horse’s behavior and body language, and to adjust their blanket as needed to keep them warm and comfortable.