When the weather turns cold, wet and muddy, your horse’s hooves face a whole new set of challenges. That once-dry paddock can quickly become a churned-up mess – and with that comes extra moisture, more bacteria, and a higher risk of hoof problems.
Between softened soles and seasonal flare-ups like thrush, winter can be tough on your horse’s feet. And let’s be honest, hoof checks can feel like a mission when the rain’s sideways and it’s barely above freezing.
The good news? You don’t need to completely overhaul your routine. A few adjustments can help keep your horse’s hooves strong and healthy all winter long.
What happens to hooves in cold, wet weather?
When hoof care takes a back seat in winter, issues can creep in quickly. Here are a few common problems to watch for:
- Thrush: A bacterial infection that thrives in wet, dirty conditions, often showing up as a foul smell, black discharge, or soreness in the frog.
- Chips and bruises: Waterlogged hooves become softer, making them more prone to minor injuries, especially when the ground switches between muddy and rock-hard.
- Cracks and flaring: Hooves can swell with excess moisture and then shrink as they dry out, leading to structural issues.
- Abscesses: Tiny cracks or bruises can allow bacteria in, triggering inflammation, pressure, and pain, often leading to sudden lameness.
Does rugging affect hoof condition?
While rugs don’t directly touch the hooves, they do play a role in keeping them healthy. When horses are cold and wet, they burn more energy to stay warm, which means less energy available for things like hoof growth and recovery.
Rugging keeps your horse warm and dry, which, of course, in turn, supports their overall health and happiness. It also encourages more movement, which naturally boosts circulation – a key factor in maintaining strong hooves.
How to feed for stronger hooves
Less pasture and more hay often means your horse’s winter diet shifts. While hay provides bulk and energy, it may not deliver all the nutrients needed to keep hooves in top condition.
Key nutrients for hoof strength include biotin, zinc and methionine. If your horse struggles with brittle hooves or slow growth, a targeted hoof supplement might be worth adding to their feed plan for a bit of internal support.
Greasy heel
Hoof problems aren’t the only issue down low. The skin just above the hoof, especially around the pasterns, is just as vulnerable in wet conditions.
Greasy heel (also called mud fever) is a bacterial skin infection that thrives in damp, muddy environments.
Look for scabs, redness, swelling or sensitivity around the pasterns. Horses with pink skin or white socks can be more prone to it, especially if they're standing in wet ground for long stretches.
How to treat greasy heel
- Gently clean the area using an antibacterial solution, then pat dry with a clean towel (no vigorous rubbing).
- Trim long hair around the pasterns to help keep things clean and dry.
- Soak the area for 10 minutes if there are scabs, then gently soften and remove them without causing bleeding.
- Once dry, apply a soothing antiseptic cream and lightly bandage if needed to protect from mud while healing.
- Remember that prevention is key. If your paddocks are muddy, try rotating areas or providing drier ground to stand on during the day.
Quick winter hoof care checklist
Daily care doesn't need to be time-consuming.
Here's a simple routine to help stay ahead of common issues:
- Pick out hooves every day (more often in wet or muddy weather)
- Watch for early signs of thrush: bad smell, soft frog, black discharge
- Use a hoof disinfectant after paddock time if needed
- Treat minor chips or cracks early
- Stick to regular trims (every 6–8 weeks) even if your horse isn’t in full work
- Keep stables dry and clean to reduce exposure to damp bedding
Winter hoof care: Frequently asked questions
How often should my horse see the farrier in winter?
Every 6 to 8 weeks, just like in warmer months. Even without shoes or regular work, trimming is vital to prevent imbalances, cracking, and flare-ups.
What’s the best way to treat thrush?
Clean the hoof thoroughly and apply a trusted thrush treatment to the affected area. Keep the horse in a clean, dry area and reapply daily. If symptoms worsen or you notice lameness, contact your farrier or vet.
Should I still clean hooves if I’m not riding?
Yes. Daily hoof checks are important even on rest days. They help prevent mud-related infections and let you catch small issues before they escalate.
How do I help moisturise hooves in cold weather?
Use a good quality hoof dressing that locks in moisture, applied after the hooves are clean and dry. Avoid over-moisturising already soft or wet hooves, as this can make the problem worse.
Ready to rug up for winter? Shop winter horse rugs and protective boots today.