As temperatures drop, horse care during the winter months becomes less about reacting to the weather and more about staying consistent with the basics. Cold, wet conditions bring new challenges on the yard, but with the right approach, your horses can remain comfortable, healthy and settled throughout the season. Good winter management isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing the right things well. We have broken down some of our top Aloga Team tips for making your horses as comfortable as possible during these winter months.
BLANKETING
Horse blankets play an important role in protecting horses from the elements, but it needs to be approached thoughtfully. Clipped horses, older horses and those prone to losing condition will often require extra protection, while others may cope well with lighter layers. Opting for waterproof functionality is key to consider for horses that are spending any time exposed to the elements. The Pro Turnout is our hardest wearing outdoor blanket ideal for horses that are turned out in groups. The Aloga turnout 2.0 is a lighter weight and strength option that still offers waterproof and breathable protection but is better suited to horses that might winter well but still require protection from the rain.
Aloga liners allows for flexibility as temperatures fluctuate, helping avoid your horses’ becoming chilled or overheating. Regularly checking under rugs is essential, as warmth without sweat is always the goal. Where possible daily checks is best while looking ahead at weather forecasts to make sure you have the correct blanket options available and ready to use when required.
SHELTER
Shelter is another key element of winter care. Where possible, horses living out should have access to protection from harsh weather, whether that’s a field shelter or natural windbreaks such as hedges or trees. These areas allow your horses to rest, conserve energy and stay dry during prolonged wet or windy spells. For horses that are being kept in during winter periods, increasing bedding helps insulate against cold ground and creates a dry, comfortable space, particularly during periods of heavy rain or frost. Rubber matting can help insulate flooring as well as making bedding go further during periods of indoor stabling.
NUTRITION
Nutrition and hydration require closer attention during the colder months. Horses naturally generate heat through digestion, making good quality forage the foundation of winter feeding. Increasing hay intake during cold, wet weather helps support warmth and maintain condition, while carefully adjusting hard feed can benefit horses that struggle to hold weight. Conditioning feeds such as Connolly’s RED MILLS Define & Shine or Horse Care 14 Mix provide additional calories and balanced nutrition when grass quality declines, while good doers may benefit from a concentrated balancer like RED MILLS PerformaCare Balancer to ensure vitamin and mineral requirements are met without excess energy. Adding a controlled source of fat, such as Foran Kentucky Karron Oil, can further support condition and coat health through the winter months.
Water intake should be monitored daily, as cold temperatures can reduce drinking and increase the risk of dehydration and colic. Ensuring water is fresh, unfrozen and appealing is essential, and slightly warming buckets during frosty periods can encourage regular intake. Supporting overall digestion and nutrient uptake with targeted supplements from the Foran range can also help horses stay healthy and comfortable throughout the winter season.
KEEP IT CONSISTENT
Maintaining a consistent daily routine supports both physical health and mental wellbeing, particularly through the winter months. Horses thrive on familiarity, even when weather conditions are unpredictable. Regular grooming not only keeps coats clean but also provides an important opportunity to assess overall condition, monitor weight changes and spot early signs of skin issues. Using quality grooming and coat care products such as Dreamcoat shine spray from Carr & Day & Martin can help lift dirt, maintain shine and support healthy skin during wet, muddy periods. Daily hoof care is equally important, as mud, ice and compacted debris can quickly lead to discomfort. Applying a reliable hoof dressing like Carr & Day & Martin CornucrescineDaily Hoof Dressing helps protect the hoof, support horn quality and reduce moisture-related issues common in winter conditions. For horses that remain in work over winter, allowing extra time for warm-up and cool-down is essential. Cold muscles are more susceptible to strain, and careful preparation reduces the risk of injury. After exercise, horses should be fully dry before being re-rugged to prevent chills. On icy days, prioritising safe footing protects both horse and rider and helps avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Winter horse care is about observation, preparation and steady management. By adapting to changing conditions and focusing on comfort, routine and nutrition, horses can remain healthy and content throughout the colder months. A thoughtful, balanced approach ensures winter is not something to endure, but a season that’s managed with confidence and care.