Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Welfare and Pasture Management in Winter

Horses on winter pasture face welfare challenges from mud, cold, limited forage and social disruption. Good winter management is essential to their physical and psychological health.

Key Facts

Mud fever causes painful skin conditions on the lower limbs of pastured horses
Horses need ad libitum forage in cold weather to maintain body temperature
Frozen ground and icy surfaces increase injury risk during winter turnout
Track systems and sacrifice paddocks protect pasture and hooves in wet conditions
Social stability should be maintained in winter group management where possible

Welfare Considerations

Winter management shapes horse welfare over several months of the year. Proactive planning for forage, shelter, hoof care and social stability prevents significant suffering.

What You Can Do

Assess winter paddock mud management before the season begins
Provide adequate hay supplementation during cold, wet periods
Check hooves and lower limbs regularly for mud fever during winter turnout