Winter mornings might make for stunning sunrises and misty arenas, but they can also take a toll on your horse — especially if they’re older, clipped, or struggling to maintain weight.
As temperatures dip across South Africa this July, here are five subtle signs that your horse might not be coping as well as you think, and some simple ways to support them through the last stretch of winter.
1. Weight loss
Even horses that are well rugged can lose weight during winter. Why? They burn more energy just staying warm. If ribs are becoming visible or the top line is fading, it’s time to adjust their diet, possibly with more forage or oil-based calories.
2. Stiffness or short striding
Cold weather can cause muscles and joints to stiffen, especially in older horses or those with mild arthritis. If your horse feels uneven or reluctant to move off, consider adding a gentle warm-up routine, joint support, or consulting your vet.
3. Cold
While not always a problem, persistently cold ears, lower legs, or a tucked-up posture can indicate poor circulation or that your horse simply isn’t warm enough. Check rug fit and layering, and consider stable bandages or a neck rug if appropriate.
4. Reduced water intake
Horses often drink less in cold weather, which increases the risk of dehydration and impaction colic. Try warming buckets slightly or adding soaked beet pulp or hay cubes to encourage fluid intake.
5. Changes in mood or energy
Some horses become dull, grumpy, or sluggish in cold weather. If your usually perky partner seems withdrawn, don’t just assume it’s winter blues; it could signal discomfort or energy deficiency.
How you can help
- Provide free-choice roughage: Fibre keeps the digestive system active and generates internal heat so ensuring forage is available 24/7 is even more essential in the winter months.
- Review your rugging strategy: One thick rug may not insulate as well as layered rugs you can adjust.
- Offer joint or metabolic support if stiffness is recurring.
- Ensure access to shelter from wind and rain, especially for horses living out.
A note on over-rugging
It’s just as important not to over-rug. Overheating can cause sweating, skin issues, and stress your horse’s natural thermoregulation. Always assess conditions and your horse’s coat, body condition, and workload before adding extra layers.
Final thought
Just like us, horses can struggle with the mid-winter slump, but they can’t tell us when they’re cold or uncomfortable. Keeping a close eye on subtle changes can help you catch early signs and make small adjustments that go a long way.
Got a winter care tip you swear by? Share it with us on Instagram or drop us a message; we’d love to feature your favourite winter hacks.