As horses age, their needs change, especially during the colder months. Senior horses often have a harder time maintaining weight, regulating body temperature, and staying comfortable in freezing conditions. With a few thoughtful adjustments to your daily routine and barn setup, you can help your older horse stay healthy, warm, and content all winter long.
Keep an Eye on Body Condition
Older horses may struggle to maintain weight in the winter because they burn extra calories to stay warm. Check your horse’s body condition regularly, paying close attention to their ribs, hips, and topline. If you notice weight loss, consider increasing their calorie intake with senior-friendly feeds or higher-quality hay.
Some older horses also have dental issues that make it harder to chew rough forage. If this is the case, soaked hay cubes or senior feeds can help ensure they get the nutrition they need without discomfort.
Provide Extra Warmth and Shelter
Senior horses are often less efficient at regulating body heat. Make sure they have access to a dry, draft-free shelter where they can escape cold winds, rain, or snow. A well-built barn or run-in shed offers essential protection from harsh winter weather.
In especially cold climates, you may also want allowing your horse to spend more time indoors. Always check blankets daily to make sure they fit properly and stay dry.
Ensure Easy Access to Water
Dehydration is a common winter issue, particularly for older horses. Cold water can discourage drinking, which increases the risk of impaction colic. Check water sources frequently to ensure they are not frozen and consider using heated buckets or tank heaters to keep water at a comfortable temperature.
You can also encourage hydration by offering soaked feeds or adding a small amount of salt to their diet to stimulate thirst.
Adjust Exercise and Turnout
Regular movement is important for joint health and circulation, especially in older horses that may experience stiffness or arthritis. If weather conditions limit turnout, consider light hand-walking or gentle exercise to keep them comfortable.
When turnout is possible, make sure pastures are free of ice and other hazards that could cause slips or injuries.
Schedule a Winter Health Check
Winter is a good time to consult your veterinarian about your senior horse’s overall health. A seasonal checkup can help identify dental issues, joint problems, or nutritional deficiencies before they become more serious. Staying ahead of these concerns will help your horse stay comfortable through the colder months.
Give Your Senior Horse the Right Winter Shelter
Proper winter care starts with a safe, comfortable place for your horse to escape the elements. A well-designed barn or run-in shed provides the protection older horses need to stay warm, dry, and stress-free throughout the season.
If you are looking to upgrade your current setup, Deer Creek Structures offers custom-built horse barns and run-in sheds designed for year-round comfort. Explore available options online or contact our team to create a structure that supports your senior horse through every season.