There are many different factors to consider when debating what rug to put on your horse. Although there is a loose guide, every horse should be treated as an individual. What works for one horse may not work for another.
It’s always tempting to rug your horse depending on how cold you are feeling. However, horses are generally very good at regulating their own temperatures and keeping themselves warm. It is much easier for a horse to warm up than it is for them to cool down, they heat themselves from the inside out, so good quality forage is a great way for an unclipped, unrugged horse to keep warm in the winter months.
Not wearing a rug is a great way for an overweight horse to lose some pounds as they regulate their temperature with their metabolism and energy from stored fat. Horses that are acclimatised to colder weather and have spent most of their time outside generally tend to cope better in a colder climate.
Rugs are not a neccesity in winter but your horse may need a rug if it falls into one or more of these factors:
- If your horse is clipped – they may need a bit more help keeping warm and dry without their coats for insulation
- If your horse is older – a veteran horse may need a rug for extra warmth or protection from the elements like rain. This can also help them to stay healthy and keep weight on.
- If your horse is prone to illness or catching a chill – using a rug to keep them warm can help to keep illnesses at bay
- How fine a coat your horse has – some breeds have fine coats such as thoroughbreds. They are more likely to feel the wet and cold then other breeds, although every horse is different.
- Is shelter available – if there is access to shelter and your horse is roughed off for winter, a rug might not be required
Lightweight rugs are a great way to keep your horse clean and dry, they are a great option for autumn days or cool summer nights. They are also good for unclipped horses in particulary wet weather or as a rug to keep the chill off a clipped horse in temperatures above 10°c
Mediumweight rugs tend to have 150g to 300g of filling. They are a great layer for those temperatures between 0°c and 10°c, for clipped and unclipped horses, depending on how they cope in those temperatures on the colder side.
Heavyweight rugs are generally for when the temperature really drops. BETA advise that if the temperatures drop below 0°c and your horse is clipped, then a heavyweight may be required.
We hope this rug guide gives a little guidance in how to rug your horse. We love seeing your photos so be sure to tag us in your photos with the #RideWithRedpost !
Please note that the information contained in this article should not be considered a replacement for expert or veterinary advice. If you have questions or concerns about rugging your horse, we recommend you seek the advice of a qualified professional.
