Do Horses Need to be Rugged/Blanketed?

 

A lot of horse owners, in fact, most horse owners rug/blanket their horses. And you might do it too, but have you ever even considered if your horse even needs to be rugged? Well the true answer is that horses do not need to be rugged. Think about the horses in the wild. They are fine without blankets aren't they? 

Now a lot of people who read this might be like, "yeah but domesticated horses are different, and they still do get cold in winter and if they start shivering they will get sick." 

But really, how are domesticated horses different to wild horses? Yes they are used to being cared for everyday, (fed, given water, washed every once in a while etc.) by humans, and some, given luxury that wild horses don't get, but they still have those 'wild horse' instincts, their bodies still work the same way wild horses' bodies work, and are still capable of so much more than we think and can survive a lot more than we think they could. They are also just as tough as undomesticated horses, in the wild. 

So, if you think about it, domesticated horses aren't really any different to wild horses, in the way how they survive and how tough they are.

Alright, now don't get me wrong with this, horses that are literally freezing will get sick and it can be very dangerous if they are not kept warm- BUT, horses grow a thick, "winter coat" in the winter which helps keep their body warm. Horses' bodies can generate enough heat to keep them warm in winter. Quick fact, horses that are fed hay during winter are keeping their body warm internally, so feed hay in the winter! 

An important thing to know is that rugs on horses can actually rub the skin if left on too long, causing sores and pain. Not just that, but rugs/blankets aren't actually really comfortable for horses. They aren't used to being strapped into a heavy blanket that rubs on their skin and can't get out of. So really, rugs and blankets aren't really comfortable for horses to wear. 

No rug, is the 'natural' way. 

Now some specific horse breeds who naturally have thicker coats than most horses are used to the cold, especially when it snows, say if that horse lives in an area where it snows. Those horses originated in country's where it snows, so they cope pretty well, although sometimes you do need a winter rug if it's snowing and the horse has absolutely no protection at all from the snow. 

A few horse breeds that cope in snow are, Norwegian Fjord Horses, Icelandic Horses, Yakut Horses, Bashkir Horses, Kabarda Horses and Finn Horses. 

Now, when should you rug your horse though? 

Really, the only time you should rug your horse is either if they are recovering from an injury and need to be kept extra warm and during really windy, chilly, wet times.

If it's been raining for 24 hours straight, then it's very very windy and chilly, then you can rug your horse. (If they aren't in a stable already.) But remember- when the rain stops and you get a warm day where the sun comes out, immediately take the rug off your horse/s. 

There can also be times where, due to lack of shelter, you may need to provide cover (with the rug) for your old or sick horse.

Quick important tip: If you ever need to put a rug on a wet horse, make sure you always first scrape the water off, then towel dry quickly.

Now, a lot of owners even rug their horses in the summer, just on cool summer nights. That is not really good at all. If in the morning the rug is left on for too long while the sun's out and it's really hot by then, the horse will overheat. Plus, it's really not necessary, and it's not comfortable for the horse, especially in summer! Even if that is on a cooler night. You do not need it at all. 

Ways to keep your horse warm, other than the horse warming it's body naturally:

Spread small piles of hay around the horse's paddock in different areas a fair distance apart from each other so that the horses are constantly moving around, thus warming their bodies. Exercise during cold months is necessary for your horse. 

Another thing to do is to provide electrolytes in cold months. Horses drink less water in winter, especially if the water is ice cold. This could lead to dehydration- that is the main cause of colic in the winter. The water should be between 7 to 15 degrees Celsius.

When the electrolytes are put into the horse's water, it actually encourages the horse to drink, and this keeps their fluids up and keeps them well hydrated. 

Also, in winter, salt helps promote horses to drink water.

One quick very important factor to consider: Never add salt or electrolytes to your horse's only water supply. Plain water must always be available.

If horses can survive in the wild naturally, then domesticated horses can survive naturally too. So please, don't waste your time looking for rugs in stores or online, or money, buying the "newest, nicest looking" rug for your horse. They really do not need it. But just in case it's the best thing to do, have a rug on hand, but you don't need the newest and nicest one, just a rug to keep the horse warm for when you absolutely need it. 

I hope you found this article helpful. :)

If your horse is suspected with a health issue, consult your vet straight away.