Question 1

At what temperature should I blanket my horse?

Accepted Answer

Most unclipped horses with a full winter coat are comfortable down to about 30-40°F without a blanket if they have shelter. Clipped horses generally need blanketing below 50-60°F. Wind, rain, and individual factors also play a role.

Question 2

How do I know what weight blanket my horse needs?

Accepted Answer

Consider the temperature, wind chill, precipitation, and your horse's clip status. Light sheets for mild cool weather (45-60°F effective), medium blankets for cold (30-45°F), and heavy blankets for very cold conditions (below 30°F). Adjust for clipped horses.

Question 3

Should I blanket my horse if it is raining?

Accepted Answer

If your horse does not have adequate shelter, a waterproof sheet or blanket is recommended in rain even at moderate temperatures. Wet coat loses insulating ability significantly, making the horse feel much colder than the actual temperature.

Question 4

Can I over-blanket my horse?

Accepted Answer

Yes, over-blanketing can cause sweating which leads to chilling when the blanket is removed or temperatures drop at night. Always check under the blanket for dampness. If your horse is sweating, switch to a lighter blanket.

Question 5

Does wind chill affect blanketing decisions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wind significantly affects a horse's comfort. Strong winds can make the effective temperature feel 10-20 degrees colder. Factor in wind when deciding on blanket weight, and consider neck covers in windy conditions.

Blanketing Decision Helper

Use this inside BarnBeacon

Frequently Asked Questions

At what temperature should I blanket my horse?

How do I know what weight blanket my horse needs?

Should I blanket my horse if it is raining?

Can I over-blanket my horse?

Does wind chill affect blanketing decisions?

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