Is My Horse Too Hot Or Too Cold Under His Horse Rugs?

Depending on the time of year, it can be a challenge to know if you are under-rugging or over-rugging your horse, especially if it’s a new horse or an older horse. So how can you tell when you've chosen the wrong time or the wrong rug and it's just not doing its job.

Here are a few signs that they're too hot, too cold, or simply irritated with a particular rug.

Signs that your horse is too cold

Common signs of your horse being too cold include:

• Shivering: Horses, like people, shiver when they're cold. If your horse is shivering and clearly uncomfortable, then she's probably too cold.
• Tucked tail: A tucked tail can indicate that a horse is trying to warm up. To confirm, spot-check her body temperature.
• Cold areas of the body: Place your hand up under the horse's rug and feel the shoulders and chest area for a quick indication of body warmth. Many people recommend feeling behind the ears or checking around the kidneys. Regularly check these areas as you add or remove layers, and you’ll soon learn your horse’s comfort zone.

After a while, you'll get a feel for what works and what doesn't. Explore our Winter Turnout Rugs & Under Rugs.

Signs that your horse is too warm

You usually rug your horse in the summer to reduce sun fading and keep off insects that can annoy them. Signs they are too hot include:

• Being wet behind the ears: Sweat behind the ears or along the neck indicates your horse is too warm. It's time to remove the rug or switch to a cooler style.
• Breathing heavily: If your horse is breathing heavily without exertion, she's probably overheating. Note: Horses sweat when slightly warm, but a lack of sweat combined with overheating can signal danger. In this case, remove the rug and ensure access to plenty of water.
• Listlessness and lethargy: Look for a lowered head and a lack of energy.
• Sweating under the rug: Be cautious of sweat accumulating under the horse rug, as it can cause blisters, skin problems, and discomfort.
• Avoiding horse rug rub marks: Remove rugs early on sunny mornings before the day warms up.

Looking for the perfect coverage for your horse - for any season? Explore our Caribu Ripstop Rugs, Fly Air Mesh Rugs, & Hybrid Rugs today.