At What Temperature Should I Blanket My Horse?

Horses have been designed by nature to be resilient and hardy animals, but there are times when domesticated horses need a bit of help from their human owners. When temperatures drop significantly, putting a blanket on your horse can keep him warm and comfortable. Not every horse will need to wear a blanket during the cold winter months, but it is important for horse owners to recognize when a good winter blanket may be warranted.

  1. Consider the Outside Temperature

    • If you show your horse, chances are you keep him clipped and neatly trimmed during show season. With show season in many parts of the county extending into October and even November, many owners continue to keep their horse's coats trimmed even when outdoor temperatures would normally stimulate the growth of a thick coat. If this is the case, your horse will appreciate wearing at least a light blanket when the temperature dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Blanketing your show horse on those cold nights will help to keep him warm, while at the same time preventing the early growth of that long winter hair. For this reason many show horses are kept blanketed year round--wearing a light turnout sheet during the warmer months and a heavier blanket during the cold winter months.

    Consider Available Shelter

    • A healthy horse is able to withstand even severe cold, but dampness and moisture can severely limit their resistance to freezing temperatures. If your horse is turned out in a pasture with little or no shelter, it is a good idea for him to wear a blanket when the weather gets cold. It is even more important for those horses to wear a blanket when the weather is damp, including after a snowstorm and when freezing rain or sleet is in the forecast. If your horse has access to a stall or run-in shed during the colder months, he may not need to be blanketed full time, but it is still a good idea to keep a blanket available for those severe cold snaps.

    Consider Your Horse's Lifestyle

    • If your horse is going from year-round indoor living, like life in a stall, to a 24-hour turnout situation, it is a good idea to put a blanket on him if the weather is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If the horse's coat has been clipped, the cutoff point for blanketing should be 60 degrees. A horse that is used to living in a warm stall will feel the chill much faster than one who has been turned out all his life. This sudden temperature change, combined with the lack of a proper blanket, is an invitation to disease and other problems.

    Consider Age and Condition

    • Older horses and those in a debilitated state will be much more susceptible to cold than those who are in top condition. If your horse is a senior citizen, it is important to watch for signs of chills and use a blanket if necessary. If your horse is underweight or recovering from an illness, a blanket may be necessary.