There are quite a few winter horse care myths that many still believe to be true, despite the fact that science has debunked them. While the popularity of these myths might suggest that there must be an element of truth to them, some involve practices that can actually harm your horse’s well-being, so it is important to know myth from fact.
Myth: Close up the barn tight during the winter.
Fact: Horses can develop breathing issues without ventilation.
When kept in a stall, ammonia fumes from urine quickly rise no matter how often you clean the still. This chemical is extremely harsh on your horse’s lungs and can cause serious issues.
Secondly, barns are inherently dusty. Because the doors and windows shut, dust particles are more likely to be inhaled. The result is coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory issues.
To avoid winter respiratory issues, keep those windows open to maintain ventilation.
Myth: Your horse will get all the water he needs from the snow in the pasture.
Fact: Most domestic horses will not instinctively consume enough snow to keep hydrated. Without the proper amount of water intake, a horse is at greater risk of colic, severe abdominal pain that can lead to death. All horses should have adequate amounts of clean water during all seasons of the year for essential health and welfare.
Myth: If I am cold, my horse must be cold.
Fact: Healthy horses that are at a good weight and have grown a winter coat are actually most comfortable in temperatures that people find cool to downright freezing. Given adequate feed and access to shelter, horses can actually do fine in temperatures down to -40° Fahrenheit.
Over blanketing a healthy horse can actually be detrimental. Fluctuations in temperature may lead to overheating, and blanketing can promote skin problems ranging from rubbing to fungal infections. Very wet, windy weather is the most likely to cause unblanketed horses to feel the cold. If they have a good place to take shelter, most will endure even this with no issues.
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