The Biggest Mistakes People Make in Winter with Their Horses – And How to Keep Them Safe

The Biggest Mistakes People Make in Winter with Their Horses – And How to Keep Them Safe

Winter can be a challenging time for both horse owners and their equine companions. Cold weather, icy conditions, and harsh winds pose risks that many owners don’t always anticipate. While it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday rush or the day-to-day demands of winter, making sure your horse stays healthy, safe, and comfortable throughout the season is essential.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the biggest mistakes horse owners make during the winter months and what you can do to avoid them. We’ll also highlight products from Kensington Protective Products that can help you keep your horse safe, warm, and happy this winter.

Mistake #1: Not Providing Enough Shelter

One of the biggest mistakes people make in the winter is assuming their horse is fine out in the cold without adequate shelter. While horses are hardy animals, they still need protection from the wind, rain, and extreme cold. Simply providing a windbreak, such as a three-sided shed, can make a huge difference in keeping your horse comfortable.

What You Can Do: Ensure your horse has access to a safe, dry place to escape the elements. A barn or shelter with proper bedding can help them stay warm and dry during the worst of the winter conditions. If outdoor shelter isn’t an option, consider using Kensington’s All-Weather Blanket to provide additional warmth and protection against the cold.

Recommended Product:

• Kensington All-Weather Blanket: This durable, waterproof blanket keeps your horse protected from the rain, snow, and wind, ensuring that they stay warm and dry no matter the weather.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Hoof Care

Winter conditions—especially wet and icy ground—can have a big impact on your horse's hooves. Horses’ hooves can crack, become brittle, or accumulate snow and ice, which can lead to slips, falls, and injuries. Neglecting hoof care in the winter is a common mistake.

What You Can Do: Ensure that your horse's hooves are cleaned regularly and checked for signs of injury or cracks. If your horse is wearing shoes, check for ice buildup and consider using hoof boots for additional traction and protection. Hoof care is critical in preventing slips and other injuries that could occur on icy ground.

Recommended Product:

• Kensington Protective Boots: These boots offer support and protection, guarding against cuts, bruises, and injuries while providing extra grip on slippery surfaces.

Mistake #3: Not Adjusting Your Horse's Diet

During the winter, horses burn more energy to stay warm, especially if they are exposed to the cold for extended periods. One of the biggest mistakes owners make is not adjusting their horse's diet to compensate for this increase in energy expenditure. Horses may need more hay or a more calorie-dense feed to maintain body condition throughout the winter months.

What You Can Do: Increase the amount of hay and adjust your horse's feed to ensure they are getting enough calories to stay warm and healthy. Pay close attention to their body condition and adjust as necessary. Additionally, providing free-choice hay throughout the day can help your horse maintain warmth and energy.

Recommended Product:
While diet adjustments may not directly relate to Kensington products, keeping your horse's stomach and digestion comfortable during the cold months is essential. You might consider Kensington’s Horseware Fly Sheet for layering in warmer days, as it can also help regulate temperature fluctuations.

Mistake #4: Forgetting to Check Water Sources

In the winter, water can freeze quickly, leaving your horse without the necessary hydration they need to stay healthy. One of the most dangerous mistakes you can make is failing to ensure your horse has access to fresh, unfrozen water.

What You Can Do: Check water sources at least twice a day, and use heated water buckets or automatic waterers to prevent freezing. Dehydration can be just as dangerous in the winter as in the summer, so it’s essential to make sure your horse is drinking enough. Consider adding electrolytes to their water to help keep them hydrated and maintain proper digestion during the colder months.

Recommended Product:

• While Kensington doesn’t offer water-related products, their Kensington Stable Blanket will help keep your horse warm if they are indoors and drinking regularly.

Mistake #5: Not Using the Right Blanketing System

Choosing the wrong blanket or not using one at all is a common mistake in the winter months. Horses who are exposed to freezing temperatures or wet weather without a proper blanket may experience discomfort or even develop hypothermia. On the other hand, using the wrong type of blanket, such as one that is too heavy or doesn’t fit properly, can cause irritation or lead to overheating.

What You Can Do: Invest in a quality blanket that is waterproof, breathable, and suited to your horse’s needs. Make sure it fits properly—too tight, and it can cause chafing; too loose, and it won’t provide adequate warmth. Use blankets for extra warmth when needed, but be mindful of temperature changes to avoid overheating.

Recommended Product:

• Kensington All-Weather Blanket: This blanket is perfect for winter, as it’s waterproof, breathable, and offers insulation to keep your horse warm and dry in the coldest of conditions.

• Kensington Stable Blanket: If your horse is spending time indoors during the winter months, this lightweight yet warm stable blanket is ideal. It helps regulate body temperature and keeps your horse cozy in the barn.

Mistake #6: Underestimating the Dangers of Ice and Snow

Slippery surfaces are a major risk factor in winter. Horses can easily slip on icy ground, leading to sprains, fractures, or other serious injuries. Snow can also accumulate on hooves, creating problems that could cause your horse to lose traction or sustain injuries.

What You Can Do: Avoid riding on icy trails or roads, and be extra cautious when walking your horse through snow or on slippery surfaces. Make sure your horse is wearing proper footwear, like shoes or boots, to provide traction. If your horse is turned out in a paddock, ensure it’s clear of ice or snow to prevent slips.

Recommended Product:

• Kensington Protective Boots: These boots provide the support your horse needs, especially on icy ground or rough terrain, reducing the risk of injury.

Mistake #7: Not Monitoring Horse's Health for Winter-Related Issues

In the colder months, horses are at risk for certain health issues that may not be as common in warmer weather. Colic, frostbite, and respiratory issues are all concerns that can arise during winter. Failing to monitor your horse’s health carefully can lead to complications.

What You Can Do: Keep an eye on your horse’s overall health by monitoring their appetite, behavior, and physical condition. Ensure that your horse is not showing signs of frostbite (pale, hard skin), colic (loss of appetite, discomfort), or other common winter illnesses. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Recommended Product:
Although Kensington doesn't offer direct health-related products, their Kensington Fly Mask with Fleece offers excellent protection from windburn, especially in horses with sensitive skin, which can help prevent additional irritation during cold weather.

Conclusion: Keep Your Horse Safe and Comfortable This Winter

Winter doesn’t have to be a stressful time for your horse, as long as you take the right precautions. By avoiding common mistakes and using the right gear, you can ensure that your horse remains comfortable, healthy, and safe throughout the winter season. Products like those from Kensington Protective Products offer the protection and support your horse needs to thrive in cold weather.

To shop for top-quality winter gear for your horse, visit Kensington Protective Products. From blankets to boots, they have everything you need to keep your horse safe this winter.

Stay proactive, stay prepared, and most importantly—stay safe!