How Often Should a Frequently Used Horse Stall Be Cleaned?

A clean stall is vital to the health of your horse. A frequently used horse stall should be cleaned at least once per day. If the stall is small, twice per day is preferable.

  1. Significance

    • A horse stall that is not kept clean can promote disease. Horses kept in dirty stalls are especially prone to thrush, a disease that rots the hoof. Food and water can also be contaminated, leading to illness.

    Substrates

    • When a stall is cleaned, fresh substrate should be put in the stall. Shavings or straw are the most common substrates.

    Cleaning

    • Feces should be removed twice per day. The dirty sections of substrate can be removed without getting rid of all of the shavings or straw, but once the substrate becomes damp, it should be completely removed. Generally, substrate should be completely replaced at least every two days.

    Equipment

    • A large, lightweight wheelbarrow and a good "cherry picker" type rake are best for cleaning stalls. A large, broad shovel is also useful. Avoid using metal rakes and pitchforks, as they can be dangerous.

    Safety

    • It is usually best to remove your horse from the stall for cleaning, to avoid getting kicked or stepped on. Wet shavings and feces are very heavy, and the repeated motion of shoveling can be dangerous for some people. Be careful and pay attention to any unusual soreness or pains, as back and wrist injuries are common.