by Simran Khanuja
As winter settles in, livestock and horse owners should be prepared for a variety of cold weather challenges that can impact animal health. Chelsea Holschbach (DMV’14; Department of Medical Sciences), assistant professor of large animal medicine at UW Veterinary Care, shares key tips to help keep animals safe, hydrated, and comfortable during winter.
Cold-Weather Concerns
Winter brings unique risks to large animals, even those well accustomed to life outdoors. The most common winter-related health risks that livestock and other large animals face during the cold season include:
- Frostbite (especially for livestock)
- Impaction colic (especially for horses)
- Falls on icy or wet surfaces (all species)
Shelter and Bedding Basics
Providing animals with appropriate shelter during winter is essential — but more isn’t always better.
For pastured livestock, wind breaks or shelters from wind and precipitation are non-negotiable, Holschbach says. Dry, deep straw or corn stalk bedding should be provided.
For pastured horses, wind breaks and shelters are also necessary. Blanketing can help, but only when used properly.
“Beware of blanketing too heavily, which can lead to sweating,” Holschbach says. “Moisture will trap the cold, and the horse will be colder than if it wasn’t blanketed.” The same is true for calves wearing jackets.
Ventilation also matters. Many owners mistakenly try to seal barns shut in winter to protect animals from the wind and cold. That’s counterproductive, according to Holschbach.
“It is imperative that indoor housing facilities are adequately ventilated,” she says. “Build-up of noxious gases, such as ammonia, are harmful for cattle and owners alike.”
Fresh air reduces dust and contaminants, which is especially critical for horses with inflammatory airway disease.
Hydration and Nutrition
During winter, water access is a top priority.
“Ensuring animals have constant access to an unfrozen water source is the most critical part of winter management for all large animal species,” Holschbach says. Heated tanks can help, but they must be checked multiple times a day to ensure proper function — and to make sure animals aren’t experiencing an electric shock while drinking.
Animals will drink more readily if:
- Water is warm rather than cold
- Free choice salt or mineral licks are accessible
- Horses are offered flavored water, such as a “sweet tea”
- A small amount of table salt has been mixed into a horse’s feed
Energy requirements to maintain normal body temperature will increase in winter. Special attention should be paid to:
- Geriatric horses
- Horses in thin body conditions
- Horses with poor dentition or metabolic syndrome
Digesting forage produces heat and helps maintain body temperature. Holschbach says to plan ahead and secure an adequate supply of high-quality hay before winter.
She also warns that feeding round bales to horses can be risky, especially if they aren’t used to it as a feed source. Round bales are more prone to be improperly cured and may be contaminated with carcasses capable of producing botulism toxins, Holschbach says.
“All feed changes should be made gradually,” she adds. “Work with your veterinarian to determine the feeding strategy that is best for your horse.”
Consistent turn-out and exercise also help support gastrointestinal health, Holschbach says. But plan for extended warm-up and cool-down periods.
As temperatures drop and snow arrives, veterinarians at UW Veterinary Care’s Morrie Waud Large Animal Hospital are available to help you plan for winter and provide expert care for your animals. If you’re interested in making an appointment, call 608-263-6300.