Q: My horse is stiff to warm up in winter—should I be concerned?

A: Mild stiffness during cold weather is common, particularly in older horses or those with underlying joint issues.

Cold temperatures can affect joint fluid viscosity and muscle flexibility, making the warm-up phase even more critical.

Begin with a longer walk period, incorporating gentle lateral movements to increase circulation.

Consider using quarter sheets or exercise rugs at the start, especially if the horse is clipped.

If stiffness doesn’t improve with warm-up or worsens over time, it’s worth chatting to your vet to investigate potential joint degeneration or arthritis

Joint supplements, physio support, and appropriate veterinary treatment can make a significant difference in winter comfort and mobility.