Over-rugging of horses is a common and underappreciated welfare problem; inappropriate blanketing causes overheating and prevents natural thermoregulation.
The cultural norm of heavy rugging in horse management often reflects owner comfort concerns projected onto horses rather than genuine animal need. A sweating horse under an unnecessary rug is experiencing thermal discomfort and cannot cool itself effectively. Rug fit is also critical — ill-fitting rugs restrict movement and cause pressure sores on shoulders, withers, and hindquarters. Owners should base rugging decisions on weather conditions, horse body condition, clip status, and individual animal needs rather than blanket rules. Allowing horses appropriate exposure to cold weather with a good winter coat promotes natural thermoregulation and is generally beneficial rather than harmful.