Blog 7: When to blanket your horse?

Blanketing a horse is a topic that sparks a lot of debate among horse owners. Deciding when, why, and how to blanket can feel complicated, especially when balancing factors like the weather, the horse’s age and health, and whether they’re clipped or have their natural coat. Understanding the basics of when to blanket your horse can help you keep them comfortable and healthy through varying seasons.

Understanding Your Horse’s Natural Cold Tolerance

Horses are naturally equipped to handle colder weather better than we might think. Their winter coat, combined with a layer of body fat and a natural thermoregulation system, allows them to withstand much lower temperatures than humans. Typically, horses can stay warm and comfortable down to about 40°F (4°C) with just their natural coat. Once the temperature drops below that point, particularly in wet or windy conditions, you may need to consider blanketing.

However, keep in mind that each horse’s tolerance for cold will vary. Horses that have grown a thick winter coat, are in good health, and are accustomed to outdoor living often require fewer blankets. Conversely, horses with thinner coats, older horses, young foals, or horses with health issues might benefit from blanketing sooner.

Factors to Consider When Deciding to Blanket

Several factors can impact whether your horse would benefit from a blanket. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Temperature and Wind Chill
   Temperature alone doesn’t tell the full story; wind chill can make even mild days feel much colder, especially for horses with shorter or thinner coats. Generally, temperatures below 40°F might warrant a light blanket if your horse is used to being blanketed or has been clipped.

2. Rain and Snow
   A wet horse is a cold horse. Rain or snow can flatten their winter coat, reducing its insulating properties. If there’s precipitation in the forecast and temperatures are below 50°F (10°C), consider a waterproof blanket to keep your horse warm and dry.

3. Clipped vs. Unclipped Horses
   Horses that have been body clipped lose much of their natural insulation, which makes blanketing essential in colder temperatures. Clipped horses often need a heavier blanket at temperatures that might not otherwise require blanketing, sometimes even starting around 50°F.

4. The Horse’s Body Condition
   Older horses, horses with health issues, or those that are underweight may struggle to maintain body heat. If your horse falls into any of these categories, they might need additional blanketing to stay warm. Likewise, a horse that has difficulty maintaining body condition may need blanketing sooner than others.

5. The Horse’s Living Environment
   Horses that are turned out in open pastures with little shelter are more exposed to the elements than those in barns or shelters. A horse with less protection from wind and precipitation might require a blanket sooner than a horse with access to a warm, sheltered stall.

A General Guide to Blanketing in Different Temperatures

Here’s a general breakdown, assuming a standard horse with a full winter coat and no health conditions:

• Above 50°F (10°C): No blanket needed for most horses, although some thin-coated or senior horses may need a light sheet.

• 40–50°F (4–10°C): Consider a lightweight blanket for clipped or thinner-coated horses, or if it’s wet or windy.

• 30–40°F (-1–4°C): A medium-weight blanket might be beneficial for most horses, particularly clipped or thinner-coated ones.

• Below 30°F (-1°C): A heavyweight blanket can help most horses, and clipped horses or seniors may need additional layering.

• Below 10°F (-12°C): Consider adding an extra layer if your horse is clipped or underweight. Horses accustomed to colder climates may still do fine with a single heavyweight blanket.

Common Blanketing Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-blanketing
  Too many layers or heavy blankets in moderate weather can cause your horse to overheat, which is uncomfortable and unhealthy. Horses regulate heat better without a blanket at milder temperatures, so avoid over-blanketing.

• Blanketing without Monitoring
  Make it a habit to check under the blanket daily. Horses can lose condition, and blanketing can sometimes hide weight loss, especially in winter.

• Ignoring Wet or Ill-fitting Blankets
  A wet blanket or an ill-fitting one can cause chafing, pressure sores, or cold spots, so it’s essential to keep blankets dry and ensure they fit well. Waterproof blankets are critical for wet weather.

Wrapping Up: The Right Blanket for the Right Conditions

Blanketing your horse is all about balancing comfort with practicality, and often, less is more. A thick coat and the right care can go a long way in keeping your horse warm naturally. But for those times when the weather turns especially cold, wet, or windy, or if your horse needs extra support, blanketing can make a big difference. Adjust based on your individual horse’s needs, keeping an eye on the weather, and you’ll be well-equipped to make the best decision for your horse’s comfort and well-being.