Winter Horse Care in South Africa: Essential Tips

Keep your horse healthy and happy through the colder months with our seasonal care guide.

Horse Care · 2026-01-20 · 5 min read

South African winters vary dramatically by region — from the Highveld frost to the mild Cape coast. Regardless of where you keep your horse, the colder months require adjustments to feeding, management, and health routines.

Feeding in Winter

Horses need more energy to maintain body condition in cold weather.

• Increase roughage — hay is the best natural heater. Feed an extra 2-3kg per day in cold weather.
• Consider a feed balancer — shorter days and less grazing means less natural nutrition.
• Warm water — horses drink less cold water, which increases colic risk. Offer lukewarm water if possible.
• Salt licks — still essential even when horses aren't sweating.

Blanketing

The great blanketing debate! Here's a practical approach:

• Clipped horses: Always blanket in temperatures below 10°C
• Unclipped, healthy horses: Most SA breeds cope fine without blankets if they have shelter
• Old, thin, or sick horses: Blanket from 15°C and below
• Key rule: If you blanket, commit to it. Don't blanket on and off — it disrupts the coat's natural insulation.

Invest in a good waterproof turnout rug for rainy provinces.

Common Winter Health Issues

• Rain scald — keep horses dry or treat with antifungal wash
• Mud fever — dry legs thoroughly; apply barrier cream
• Colic — reduced water intake is the biggest risk; ensure constant access to water
• Weight loss — monitor body condition weekly; adjust feed promptly
• Hoof issues — muddy conditions soften hooves; regular farrier visits are essential

Exercise in Winter

• Warm up longer — at least 15 minutes of walking before work
• Cool down properly — never put a hot, sweaty horse back in a rug
• Take advantage of firmer ground for hacking
• Indoor arenas are worth the travel if your yard doesn't have one

Winter is also a great time to buy! Demand and prices dip, so browse SAHorseSales for winter bargains.

More SAHorseSales articles · Browse horses for sale in South Africa