What to Do If Your Horse Is Shivering | Winter Horse Care Guide
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What to Do When Your Horse is Shivering

43 Views 2 Liked Posted on: 06/27/2025
 

1. Get Them Out of the Elements

If your horse is exposed to wind, rain, or snow, move them to a dry, sheltered area immediately. A stable, run-in shed, or even a wind-protected yard can make a world of difference.

2. Remove Wet Rugs

Wet rugs can trap moisture against the horse's skin and worsen the cold. Gently remove any soaked rug and replace it with a dry, warm, and waterproof one.

Tip: Always have a spare dry rug on hand during winter—especially in regions with heavy rain.

3. Layer for Warmth

Use a heavier fill winter rug (300g or more), or consider layering a dry stable rug underneath a waterproof outer rug. This layered approach traps warm air and allows you to adapt to changing weather.

4. Feed for Internal Warmth

Offer hay immediately. Chewing and digesting hay helps generate heat from the inside out. A bucket of lukewarm water will also encourage them to stay hydrated.

5. Monitor Closely

Watch them over the next hour. If they stop shivering, begin to move around normally, and look content, you've likely resolved the issue. If they continue to shiver or show other signs of distress (lethargy, stiffness, unusual behaviour), consult your vet promptly.

 How to Prevent Shivering in the First Place

  • Use a waterproof, breathable, and well-insulated rug

  • Rug appropriately for your climate (especially in cold, wet, or windy regions)

  • Always have shelter available in paddocks or open yards

  • Feed plenty of forage to support body temperature regulation

  • Check rugs daily for leaks, dampness, or shifting

 

Did You Know?

At Love My Horse, our winter rugs are designed to withstand the worst Aussie weather while keeping your horse warm, dry, and comfortable. With features like:

  • No neck join = no leaks

  • 300g fill insulation

  • Durable 1200 Denier ripstop outer

  • Longer drop and deep shoulder darts for better fit on bigger horses

  • Be seen be safe reflectors help make changing rugs at night easier and safer

Your horse deserves comfort you can trust. Shop Winter Rugs Now →

Stay warm, stay dry, and keep your horse happy this winter!

 
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Tags : Clydesdale winter rug, Cold horse care, Horse care australia, Horse feeding in winter, Horse rug layering, Horse rug sizing, Horse shivering, Horse warmth tips, Horse winter care, Love my horse, Rain scald prevention, Stable rugs, Waterproof horse rugs, Wet rug problems, Winter horse rugs
Posted in: Love My Horse Articles / Newsletters

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