When should I put a blanket on my horse? You should put a blanket on your horse when the weather makes them uncomfortable, usually when it is cold, wet, or windy, or if they have been clipped.
Putting the right blanket on your horse is vital for their health and comfort. A well-fitted blanket keeps your horse warm and dry when needed. A poorly fitted one can cause harm, rubs, or fail to keep them warm. This guide will walk you through everything about blanketing your horse. We will cover finding the right fit, picking the right blanket, and keeping them in good shape.
Deciphering Horse Blanket Needs
Not every horse needs a blanket all the time. Knowing when and why to blanket is the first step.
Assessing Your Horse’s Needs
Horses handle cold well naturally. Their coat provides good protection. However, some situations change this.
Reasons to Blanket:
- Clipping: Horses clipped for work lose their natural insulation. They need help staying warm. This is where the best blanket for clipped horse considerations start.
- Old Age or Illness: Older or sick horses struggle to keep their body heat up.
- Extreme Weather: Very cold, windy, or rainy days demand extra warmth.
- Work Schedule: Horses working hard often sweat. A blanket can help them cool down slowly or keep them clean.
Types of Horse Blankets
There are many types of horse blankets available. Each serves a different purpose.
| Blanket Type | Primary Use | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Turnout Rugs | Protection outside in the weather. | Waterproof and durable. |
| Stable Rugs | Warmth inside the barn. | Cozy fill, not usually waterproof. |
| Cooler Rugs | Wicking away sweat after work or washing. | Fleece or heavy mesh material. |
| Lightweight Sheets | Keeping clean or light rain protection. | Thin, often nylon or cotton. |
| Rain Sheets | Protection from rain without warmth. | Waterproof, no fill. |
When choosing horse blankets, think about where the horse will wear it and how much warmth (fill) is needed.
Getting the Right Fit: A Horse Blanket Sizing Guide
A bad fit is the biggest problem people have with blankets. A blanket that is too small pulls at the shoulder. One that is too big slides around and causes rubs. Using a proper horse blanket sizing guide is key.
How to Measure Horse for Blanket
You need two main measurements to get the size right. A horse blanket fitting process starts here.
- Measuring Body Length: Start at the center of the horse’s chest (point of the shoulder). Run the tape measure all the way along the side of the horse to the center of the tail. This measurement determines the blanket size in inches. Most blankets are sold in 2-inch increments (e.g., 78″, 80″).
- Measuring Depth (for some blanket types): This measures from the bottom of the belly up to the horse’s back, right behind the wither. This ensures the blanket has enough drop.
Always check the manufacturer’s specific sizing chart. Sizes can vary between brands.
Key Fit Points to Check
Once you have the blanket, try it on before removing the tags. Look closely at these areas:
- Shoulders: The blanket must lay smooth over the shoulder. It should not pull tight when the horse moves or lowers its head. Look for shoulder gussets (pleats) which allow for movement.
- Chest Fastenings: These should be snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers easily between the buckle and the horse’s chest.
- Belly/Surcingles: The belly straps (surcingles) should cross under the belly. They keep the blanket from spinning around. Leave a few inches of room between the straps and the horse’s body.
- Leg Arches: If the blanket has them, they should fit around the hindquarters without cutting in.
- Tail Flap: This flap should cover the top of the tail and keep rain out.
Remember, preventing blanket rubs starts with a good fit.
Layering Horse Blankets Correctly
Sometimes one blanket is not enough, especially in very cold climates. Layering horse blankets is like dressing yourself in layers. It traps air between the layers, which provides better warmth than one thick layer.
Why Layer?
Layers offer flexibility. You can add or remove a layer as the temperature changes during the day. This prevents your horse from getting too hot and sweating, which can lead to chills later.
How to Layer Safely
Always layer from the inside out:
- Base Layer (Wicking Layer): This is often a light sheet or cooler worn directly on the horse. If the horse sweats, this layer pulls moisture away from the skin.
- Mid-Layer (Insulation): This is usually a stable blanket with a medium weight fill (e.g., 200g). This provides the main warmth.
- Outer Layer (Turnout Shell): This must be waterproof and windproof. It protects the inner layers from the elements. This layer should fit perfectly.
Important Note: Do not put two heavy blankets on. Too many layers trap heat poorly and restrict movement. Also, be careful when layering blankets that are not designed to be layered together, as they might bunch up.
Choosing the Right Fill Weight
The amount of “fill” in a blanket dictates how warm it is. This is measured in grams (g).
Deciphering Fill Weights
| Fill Weight (Grams) | Temperature Range (Approx.) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| No Fill (Sheet) | Above 55°F (13°C) | Rain protection, keeping clean. |
| 50g – 100g | 45°F – 55°F (7°C – 13°C) | Light chill, unclipped horses. |
| 200g – 250g | 30°F – 45°F (-1°C – 7°C) | Standard winter warmth, good for clipped horses. |
| 300g + | Below 30°F (-1°C) | Very cold weather, heavy coats needed. |
These temperatures are guides only. Always use your horse’s behavior and body condition as the final judge.
Specific Blanketing Situations
Different situations require different approaches to choosing horse blankets.
Blanketing a Clipped Horse
Clipped horses need blankets because they lack their natural winter coat.
- The Rule of Thumb: The shorter the clip, the heavier the blanket required. A full body clip needs a heavy blanket sooner than a trace clip.
- Gradual Warmth: If you clip in early fall, start with a medium weight blanket. As winter deepens, switch to a heavy blanket (300g+).
- The best blanket for clipped horse is one that is waterproof, breathable, and fits perfectly. Breathability is crucial to prevent sweat buildup under the blanket.
Dealing with Rain and Wet Weather
Keeping a horse dry is often more important than keeping them warm. A wet coat loses its insulating power fast.
- Always use a waterproof turnout blanket for rain or snow. Check the denier (the strength rating of the fabric, e.g., 1200D) for durability.
- If a horse gets soaked under a blanket (due to a poor fit or a tear), remove the wet layer immediately. Dry the horse with a cooler before applying a dry blanket.
Summer and Fly Sheets
Even in warm weather, horses need protection from bugs. Fly sheets are very light sheets that stop flies and gnats from biting. They offer minimal warmth but are essential for skin protection in summer.
Maintaining Horse Blankets for Longevity
Good blankets are an investment. Proper care extends their life significantly. This involves daily checks and periodic cleaning.
Daily Checks: Preventing Blanket Rubs
Look at your horse every time you put a blanket on or take it off. Rubs are caused by friction, tightness, or poor fit.
Common Rub Spots:
- Shoulders: The most common spot. If the blanket pulls tight, it rubs the hair off the point of the shoulder.
- Withers: Can happen if the blanket sits too low or has a tight wither pad.
- Chest: Caused by buckles being too tight.
- Hind Quarters: If the blanket is too short or the leg straps are too tight.
Tips to Stop Rubs:
- Use Shoulder Guards or Inserts: Some blankets come with extra padding in the shoulder area. You can also buy separate shoulder guards that slip over the blanket straps.
- Use Fleece or Cotton Liners: A lightweight sheet underneath acts as a buffer between the horse’s skin and the heavier blanket.
- Ensure Proper Chest Fit: Adjust the front closures so they are secure but allow movement.
Winter Horse Blanket Care
As the snow flies, your blankets work hard. They need regular maintenance.
- Check Daily: Look for tears, broken straps, or buckles that are coming loose. A small tear can become a huge rip quickly.
- Wipe Down: If the blanket is just muddy, use a stiff brush to clean the outside before putting it back on.
- Check Waterproofing: If you notice water soaking through the outer shell, the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating may be failing.
Blanket Washing for Horses
Over time, blankets get smelly, dirty, and lose some of their loft (puffiness), which reduces warmth.
When to Wash:
Wash blankets twice a year: once in the spring when you take them off for the season, and once in the fall before you put them on.
How to Wash:
- Pre-Cleaning: Remove all debris. Use a stiff brush to get rid of loose dirt, hair, and hay. Unbuckle all straps and close all Velcro pieces so they don’t snag in the machine.
- Machine Choice: Use a large, commercial-size washing machine if possible. Home washers often struggle with the bulk of a heavy rug.
- Detergent: Use mild, specialized blanket washing for horses detergent. Do not use regular laundry detergent or fabric softener. Fabric softener blocks the breathability of the waterproof outer shell.
- Rinsing: Rinse multiple times to ensure all soap is gone. Soap residue can irritate the horse’s skin.
- Drying: Air dry blankets. Never put waterproof blankets in a machine dryer, as high heat melts the waterproof tape and coatings.
Final Thoughts on Horse Blanketing
Blanketing is a balancing act. You must protect your horse without restricting them or making them overheat. Always monitor your horse closely, especially when the weather swings wildly. A good horse blanket sizing guide and attention to detail will keep your companion comfortable year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I leave a blanket on 24/7?
It is generally best practice to remove blankets daily, especially turnout rugs, to check the horse’s skin and ensure the fit is still perfect. If the weather is continuously foul and the horse is wearing a turnout rug, you may leave it on, but you must check the horse underneath at least once a day for rubs or signs of sweating.
Should I blanket a horse that is fuzzy (has a winter coat)?
If your horse has grown a thick, healthy winter coat, they usually do not need a blanket unless the weather is extremely harsh (well below freezing, heavy wind, or heavy freezing rain). If you do blanket them, use only a waterproof outer shell with no or very little fill to keep their coat clean and dry, but not necessarily warm.
What if my horse rolls with a blanket on?
Rolling is normal horse behavior. If your horse rolls, straps can shift, or the blanket can twist. This is why checking the straps and surcingles daily is crucial. If a blanket twists sideways, remove it immediately, check for rubs, and re-fasten it correctly.
How do I waterproof a blanket that is leaking?
If your turnout rug is leaking, you need to re-waterproof the outer shell. Purchase a specialized spray or wash-in treatment designed for outdoor gear. Follow the product instructions carefully. This usually involves washing the blanket, ensuring it’s damp, applying the treatment, and allowing it to air dry completely.
What is the difference between a turnout rug and a stable rug?
A turnout rug is designed for outdoor use. It is waterproof and windproof, often made of durable, high-denier nylon. A stable rug is designed for indoor use only. It is breathable, often fleece-lined or poly-filled for warmth, but it is usually not waterproof. Putting a stable rug out in the rain will soak through quickly.