by CRAIG STARK, BS, CJF, DipWCF Certification Committee Chairman, AFA
When winter arrives in Oklahoma, horse owners face a unique mix of challenges. The state’s climate swings from mild, sunny days to icy storms, often with rapid changes in temperature and footing conditions. These fluctuations can have a direct effect on equine hoof health. While it’s easy to focus on blanketing, feeding and shelter in the colder months, hoof care is just as critical — and often overlooked.
From trimming schedules to moisture management, traction and nutrition, this article explores practical strategies for keeping your horse’s feet healthy through Oklahoma’s unpredictable winter.
1. Understanding Oklahoma’s winter hoof challenges
Unlike regions with steady, snow-covered winters, Oklahoma often cycles between freezing nights and thawing days. That means horses may encounter:
- Frozen, uneven ground that increases concussion and risk of bruising.
- Wet–dry cycles from melting snow, rain and mud, which can weaken the hoof wall.
- Icy patches that increase the risk of slips and falls.
- Mud buildup in lower-lying areas, creating conditions for bacterial infections like thrush.
- Because Oklahoma weather can change drastically in a short period of time, hoof care plans must be flexible and proactive.
2. Keep a regular trimming or shoeing schedule
One of the most common mistakes in winter hoof care is extending the interval between farrier visits. Some owners assume that because growth slows in winter, trims can be pushed back. While hoof growth does tend to slow in cooler months, it does not stop. In fact, overlong hooves can:
- Chip more easily on frozen ground.
- Affect a horse’s balance on slippery terrain.
- Make it harder to maintain proper breakover, increasing strain on tendons and ligaments.
- Maintain a consistent schedule for trims or shoe resets depending on your horse’s needs. Work with your farrier to adjust the plan based on hoof growth rate, workload and terrain.
3. Managing moisture and mud
Oklahoma’s winter mud can be as damaging as summer drought. Constant wetting and drying can cause the hoof wall to expand and contract, leading to cracks and separation. Prolonged wet conditions can soften the sole, leaving it more vulnerable to bruising. Best practices for management include:
- Dry standing areas: Use gravel or mats in high-traffic areas like gates, water troughs and feeding stations.
- Pick hooves daily: Removing packed mud, manure and ice helps prevent bacterial growth.
4. Adjusting for traction needs
Frozen ground, ice patches and mud each present their own traction challenges.
- Barefoot horses usually get better grip on snow and frozen ground than shod horses, but they may bruise more easily. Shod horses can benefit from winter shoeing adjustments, such as:
- Borium or studs for extra grip.
- Snow pads to prevent snowballing (frozen balls of snow and mud packed into the sole).
- Your farrier can help determine the best option for your horse’s work level and turnout environment.
5. Protection against sole bruising
Oklahoma’s frequent freeze–thaw cycles can create rock-hard, rutted ground that’s tough on the feet. Bruises can occur when the sole takes repeated impact from frozen clods or rocks. Protection strategies:
Consider pads or hoof boots for horses in heavy work or with thin soles.
Avoid galloping or tight turns on frozen, uneven ground.
Provide softer footing in resting areas.
6. Nutrition’s role in winter hoof health
Hoof quality starts from the inside out. In winter, horses often rely more heavily on hay than pasture, and certain nutrients may be reduced. Key dietary considerations:
- Biotin, methionine and zinc are critical for hoof strength.
- Maintain adequate protein intake to support keratin production.
- Provide a balanced mineral supplement if your hay’s mineral profile is lacking.
- If you’re unsure about your horse’s diet, consider having your hay analyzed and consult with an equine nutritionist or veterinarian.
7. Monitor for cracks and chipping
Winter winds in Oklahoma can dry out hooves, particularly when humidity drops. Dry, brittle hooves are more prone to cracking. Signs to watch for:
- Horizontal cracks or “blowouts,” often linked to previous abscesses.
- Vertical cracks (sand cracks) that can deepen and cause lameness.
- Minor chips and surface cracks are usually cosmetic, but deep or spreading cracks need immediate farrier attention.
8. Exercise and circulation
- Movement is vital for hoof health because it promotes circulation to the lower limbs. In winter, horses often move less due to weather or icy footing, which can slow hoof growth and healing. Ways to encourage movement safely:
- Provide daily turnout, even if limited to a smaller dry lot.
- Use slow-feeder hay nets placed in various locations to encourage walking.
- Avoid long periods of complete stall confinement unless necessary for medical reasons.
9. Partner with your farrier year-round
Good winter hoof care is a team effort between the owner and farrier. Communicate changes in your horse’s workload, footing conditions or health so your farrier can make timely adjustments. Questions to ask your farrier in winter:
- Should my horse’s shoeing be modified for traction?
- Are there early signs of white line disease, thrush or other issues?
- Would hoof boots be beneficial during certain weather conditions?
10. Special considerations for older horses
Senior horses may have slower hoof growth, thinner soles or arthritis that affects how they bear weight. Winter can exacerbate these challenges. Supportive measures include:
- Extra bedding for cushion in stalls.
- Close monitoring for changes in gait or stance.
- Gentle warm-up before riding on cold days to prevent slips or strains.
11. Emergency preparedness
Oklahoma winters can bring sudden ice storms that disrupt farrier schedules or limit turnout. Keep the following on hand:
- A set of hoof boots in your horse’s size.
- Thrush treatment solution.
- A hoof pick with a brush.
- Contact numbers for your farrier and veterinarian.
Healthy hooves year-round
Winter hoof care in Oklahoma is all about preparation, consistency and adaptability. The rapid weather shifts demand close observation and prompt action to protect your horse’s feet. By maintaining a regular farrier schedule, managing moisture, supporting traction and ensuring good nutrition, you can help your horse come through the winter sound, comfortable and ready for spring work.
Healthy hooves don’t just happen — they’re the result of year-round attention, even when the ground is frozen and the wind is howling. With the right strategies in place, your horse’s feet can weather Oklahoma’s winter as well as the rest of the year.
