By Nicole Fava
As the cold weather comes in, along with the rain and snow, you might find yourself asking this very common question: “Does my horse need a blanket?” There are several factors that will contribute to your answer.
Things to Consider When Blanketing Your Horse
1. Does your horse have a full coat?
In general, horses were designed to be outdoors, and they grow winter coats as soon as the days get shorter. Many of us clip our horses so they can exercise comfortably during the winter months. A clipped horse must wear a blanket in colder temperatures and wet weather, as we have taken away their natural method of staying warm.
A horse with a full winter coat may not need a blanket at all.
2. How old is your horse?
Older horses lose the ability to regulate their body temperature easily. A senior horse is more likely to need a blanket than a younger horse.
3. What condition is your horse in?
As you may know, fat helps a horse stay warm! So your easy keeper may be fine without a blanket.
Staying warm requires a horse to burn calories. If your horse is thinner or dealing with health conditions, consider blanketing them to keep them comfortable and increase their chances of keeping weight on.
4. Does your horse live indoors or outdoors?
A horse that lives indoors is less likely to need a blanket than a horse that lives outside. If they must be blanketed, a stable sheet or stable blanket will do the trick.
A horse that lives outdoors with an adequate shelter (and a full coat) could get away with minimal blanketing as well. If your horse lives outdoors and does not have adequate shelter, you should especially consider a rain sheet or turnout blanket to protect them from the elements.
5. What is the climate like where your horse lives?
Warm, moderate climates require less blanketing. In these climates, most horse owners can get away with lightweight blankets and sheets for their horses.
If you live in an area with a higher elevation, the potential for freezing temperatures, and severe weather, always have heavier blankets on hand.
A Guide to Temperatures & Blanketing Your Horse
For horses with a full coat . . .
— A lightweight blanket/sheet (0 – 100 grams of fill) can be worn between 30°F and 40°F .
— A medium-weight blanket (100 – 250 grams of fill) can be worn between 20°F and 30°F .
— A heavyweight blanket (over 300 grams of fill) can be worn below 20°F.
For horses that are clipped . . .
— A lightweight blanket/sheet (0 – 100 grams of fill) can be worn between 40°F and 50°F .
— A medium-weight blanket (100 – 250 grams of fill) can be worn between 30°F and 40°F.
— A heavyweight blanket (over 300 grams of fill) can be worn below 30°F.
Of course, the above guide may not apply to every horse. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian to ensure that your horse stays cozy without being too toasty!