Preparing Aging Equines for Cold Months Ahead

As fall gives way to the cooler days and longer nights of winter, it's essential to start preparing your senior horse for the challenges of the colder months. Aging horses often have special needs that require extra attention to remain healthy and comfortable throughout winter. In this blog, we’ll explore critical steps you can take to winterize your senior horse, from adjusting their diet and ensuring proper shelter to addressing health concerns and maintaining a regular care routine.

1. Adjusting the Diet for Winter

As temperatures drop, your horse’s energy needs will increase. Senior horses, in particular, may require dietary adjustments to maintain their weight and overall health. Cold weather means your horse will expend more energy to stay warm, so providing sufficient calories is essential.

• Increase Forage: Hay should be the primary source of nutrition for your senior horse during winter. At Ryerss Farm, we grow our own hay for residents to provide both calories and the necessary roughage to keep the digestive system functioning smoothly. Feeding high-quality hay in adequate amounts helps ensure your horse stays warm from the inside out, as the digestion of hay produces heat.

• Consider Senior Feeds: If your horse has difficulty maintaining weight, consider adding a senior feed to their diet. These feeds are designed to be easily digestible and packed with the nutrients that older horses need, such as higher levels of fiber, fat, and protein. Ryerss provides its residents with an individualized diet, including various supplements to boost the horse’s ability to absorb and utilize necessary vitamins and nutrients. 

• Supplements for Joint Health: Winter can be harsh on aging joints. Adding supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage joint pain and inflammation, making your horse more comfortable during colder weather. Many horses receive joint supplements and NSAIDs to relieve chronic discomfort from conditions such as arthritis. 

2. Shelter Considerations

Providing adequate shelter is crucial for your senior horse as the weather becomes harsher. Older horses may struggle more than younger ones to regulate their body temperature, so having a warm, dry place to retreat is essential.

• Windbreaks and Run-In Sheds: Ensure your horse can access a sturdy, weatherproof shelter that blocks the wind and protects from rain and snow. If your horse spends most of their time outdoors, a well-constructed run-in shed can make a significant difference in keeping them warm and dry.

• Stable Management: At Ryerss Farm, every resident has his/her own stall. For horses kept in stalls, ensure the barn is well-ventilated but free from drafts. Damp and cold conditions can exacerbate respiratory issues, which are more common in older horses—regularly clean stalls to keep bedding dry and warm.

• Blanketing: Deciding when and how to blanket a senior horse is critical to winter preparation. Older horses often have a more challenging time growing a thick winter coat, and those with health issues or low body condition may benefit from a blanket. Use a waterproof, breathable blanket that fits well and provides adequate warmth without causing overheating. Regularly check under the blanket for signs of rubbing, sores, or changes in body condition.

3. Health and Veterinary Care

Winter can exacerbate existing health problems in senior horses, so it’s essential to keep up with regular veterinary care and be vigilant about any changes in your horse’s condition.

• Dental Care: Ensure your senior horse’s teeth are in good shape before winter sets in. Older horses often have dental issues that can make chewing hay difficult, leading to weight loss. A dental check-up in the fall can help identify and address any problems early, allowing your horse to eat comfortably through the winter. At Ryerss, our horses have regular dental visits. You can even sponsor one for your favorite resident!

• Vaccinations and Deworming: Consult your veterinarian about fall vaccinations and deworming schedules to protect your horse against seasonal illnesses and parasites. A healthy immune system is vital for senior horses during the colder months.

• Monitor Weight and Condition: Regularly monitor your horse’s weight and body condition throughout the winter. Senior horses can lose weight quickly in cold weather, and a thick winter coat can hide weight loss. Use a weight tape and check for signs of weight loss, such as prominent ribs or a sunken appearance in the flanks.

4. Maintaining a Routine

Consistency is vital to keeping senior horses healthy during winter. Establishing and maintaining a regular care routine helps reduce stress and keeps your horse in the best possible condition.

• Exercise: While older horses may not be as active as they used to be, regular, light exercise is still essential to maintain muscle tone, joint mobility, and circulation. Be mindful of icy or slippery conditions and adjust the activity level accordingly.

• Hydration: Ensure your horse has access to fresh, unfrozen water. Older horses are prone to dehydration in winter, which can lead to colic. Consider using heated water buckets or tank heaters to encourage adequate water intake.

Winterizing your senior horse requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Adjusting their diet, providing appropriate shelter, keeping up with health care, and maintaining a consistent routine can help your aging equine companion stay healthy, comfortable, and happy throughout the winter months. At Ryerss Farm, we ensure our residents can continue to enjoy the season while staying resilient against colder weather's challenges. Learn more about who we are and how you can support our mission on our website!