11/01/2026
The blankets have been hung!
Did you know that horses are naturally equipped to handle some pretty chilly temperatures? Their winter coats are designed to trap warm air close to their bodies, providing natural insulation. In fact, a healthy horse with a full winter coat, adequate forage and shelter can often stay comfortable in temperatures much colder than we can! A full dry winter coat can have a critical temperature of around -10°C to -15°C!
But that doesn’t mean every horse should go without a blanket! 🧥
A few things we consider when deciding whether to blanket:
🐴 Coat condition: Clipped horses or those with limited winter coat growth may need extra protection.
🌧️ Weather conditions: Cold rain, freezing rain and strong winds can be harder on horses than dry, snowy weather.
🌾 Forage availability: Horses produce heat through the fermentation of fibre in their hindgut. Consistent access to quality forage is especially important during colder weather.
❤️ Age & body condition: Senior horses, underweight horses and those with certain health conditions may have a harder time maintaining their body temperature.
🏡 Shelter: Access to a dry, wind-protected space makes a big difference!
And here’s something to consider: More blanket isn’t always better!
Overblanketing can cause sweating, discomfort and overheating. A blanket that’s too heavy for the weather can actually work against your horse’s natural temperature regulation.
Keeping an eye on stress signals like shivering and tucking, and actually checking under blankets for body temperature can help to determine what each individual needs.
At Clover Equestrian Co., we believe in individualized horse care rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. We monitor the changing weather, each horse’s comfort and their individual needs to help them stay happy and healthy throughout the winter months. 💚
Whether your horse is a fluffy little woolly mammoth or prefers a cozy winter wardrobe, the goal is the same: a comfortable, healthy horse!
