When it comes to horse blankets, there is a lot of debate about whether or not they are necessary in the rain.
Some horse owners believe that horses do not need blankets in the rain because they will stay warm and dry on their own. However, others believe that horse blankets are essential in order to protect them from the elements.
The right answer is it depends on the horse’s coat and the severity of the weather. A horse’s coat helps protect them from the rain, but if the weather is really bad or the horse is shivering, a blanket will help keep them warm.
In this blog post, I will explore both sides of the argument, when to blanket as well as which is the best blanket for a horse in rain, and let you decide for yourself!
Here you can also check out the best horse blankets for Rain and winter as well.
Contents
When to blanket a horse in the rain?
There are a few things to consider before you blanket your horse in the rain.
The first is the horse’s coat. If your horse has a thick coat, it will likely be fine in the rain without a blanket. However, if your horse has a thin coat or is clipped, it may benefit from a blanket.
The second thing to consider is the severity of the weather. If it is simply raining, your horse will likely be fine without a blanket.
However, if the weather is cold and rainy, or if there is a chance of thunderstorms or high winds, you may want to consider putting a blanket on your horse.
The third thing to consider is whether or not your horse is shivering. If your horse is cold and wet, a blanket will help them stay warm and dry.
Long story short…
Horse blankets are not necessary for the rain, snow, and winters. However, if the horse’s coat is thin or the horse is shivering, a blanket will help keep them warm.
Things you should consider before blanketing a horse
Horses are different than humans, they are covered in a fur coat.
When it rains, that coat gets wet and can take a while to dry off. If your horse is already wet, adding a blanket will not make them any drier and can actually make them colder.
If your horse is cold, consider walking them or putting them in a cooler until they are warm and dry.
In case it is raining and your horse is already dry, then a blanket can help protect them from the cold and wet. Make sure to use a horse-specific blanket that is breathable and waterproof.
If your horse is blanketed, be sure to check on them frequently to make sure the blanket is not causing them any discomfort.
Make sure your horse has a dry place to stand and lie down when it’s raining, and check on her often to make sure she’s staying warm and dry. With a little extra care, your horse can stay safe and comfortable in bad weather!
Horses are individuals and some do better in the rain than others. If your horse seems uncomfortable or stressed in the rain, consider bringing them inside.
What temperature should a horse wear a blanket?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as every horse is different. However, a good rule of thumb is to blanket your horse when the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
This will help your horse stay warm and dry in the cold weather.
If you are unsure whether or not to blanket your horse, it is always best to err on the side of caution and put a blanket on them. This way, you can be sure that your horse is comfortable and protected from the cold weather.
How cold is too cold for horses in rain?
Horses are generally resistant to cold weather, but they can still get cold if they’re wet. If the temperature is below freezing, it’s best to use a horse rain sheet instead of a blanket. If your horse is shivering, he’s probably cold.
Horses are able to withstand colder temperatures than humans, but that doesn’t mean they don’t feel the cold. In fact, horses are particularly sensitive to cold weather and can easily become chilled.
One way to tell if a horse is feeling cold is by observing its behavior. If a horse is shivering, has its ears down, or is holding its tail close to its body, it may be feeling cold.
Horses can also get rain rot, a skin condition caused by wet weather. Rain rot can cause the horse’s coat to become matted and crusty and can lead to infection.
When blanketing your horse is necessary?
- During extreme heat with a light material to avoid sun bleaching and heat stroke.
- During extreme cold when the temperature falls below freezing point.
- When the temperature is cold and you have recently groomed your horse.
- When you remove the fur layer from your horse.
- During rain with a waterproof cover.
- When you don’t have a proper shelter for your horse.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether or not horses need blankets in the rain. Each horse is an individual and will have different needs.
However, there are a few general guidelines that can help you decide what’s best for your horse. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and provide your horse with a blanket or rain sheet.
After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
FAQ’s
Do horses need blankets in winters?
A blanket is necessary for very cold weather, but a horse’s natural coat will usually be enough to keep him warm in light rain or snow. In fact, if you live in a colder climate, you may need to remove your horse’s blanket during mild weather so he doesn’t overheat.
Is it okay to put a blanket on a wet horse?
It’s not ideal, but if you must, put a sheet over the horse while he’s still wet to help him dry off and prevent him from getting cold. If you have a horse that is resistant to being blanketed, consider using a rug instead.
Are horse blankets waterproof?
Most horse blankets are waterproof, but not all of them are. If you’re not sure, check the label or ask the manufacturer. However, they are not 100% effective in keeping your horse dry. If your horse is exposed to heavy rain, you may want to consider using a horse rain sheet in addition to his blanket.
