Winter pasture management significantly affects horse welfare through mud management, forage provision and social group stability during the most challenging season.
Winter is the highest-risk welfare period for many horses. Mud fever causes significant pain and in severe cases systemic illness. Inadequate forage causes gut discomfort, stereotypies and weight loss. Exposure without shelter in wet, cold conditions causes hypothermia risk in compromised animals. Poached, waterlogged paddocks limit movement and increase injury risk. Good winter management requires proactive planning including track systems or sacrifice areas, adequate forage provision, mud fever prevention through skin care and appropriate shelter for all group members.