By: Dr Rosie Alcorn BVSc PG Cert VPS Cert AVP MRCVS
Autumn has definitely arrived this week, bringing fluffy coats and muddy fields. Like many owners, I’ve already had the clippers out to make coat management and keeping horses comfortable at work that bit easier.
In my opinion, there’s nothing smarter than a freshly clipped horse with a healthy coat and good condition. But clipping isn’t just about appearance - removing the coat affects how your horse regulates temperature, burns energy, and even what nutritional support they need during the colder months.
A horse’s winter coat acts like a built-in duvet. The dense hair traps air, reducing heat loss, that’s why horses standing in the snow often have snow resting on their backs. Their coat is such an effective insulator that the snow doesn’t even melt.
However, that same thick coat can cause problems during exercise. It traps sweat, making it difficult for the horse to cool down and dry off. This can leave them damp for long periods and more prone to skin conditions such as rain scald or dermatitis.
It’s a bit like trying to go for a run in a ski jacket - you’d get hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable, and if you couldn’t change afterwards, you’d probably end up chilled.
Clipping allows horses to work comfortably, dry more quickly, and stay healthier overall. But it also means their management and nutrition may need to be adjusted.
1. Energy Requirements and Forage Intake
Once clipped, horses lose more body heat and therefore use extra energy to maintain core temperature, even when rugged.
Provide plenty of forage, such as hay or haylage, fermentation in the hindgut produces heat, acting as the horse’s natural “central heating”.
Monitor body condition regularly using a scoring system to spot subtle changes before weight loss becomes visible.
For overweight horses, clipping can help promote gentle weight loss. However, lean or performance horses may require a slight increase in energy intake.
Avoid full clips on underweight horses, as they will expend more calories trying to stay warm.
2. Protein for Skin and Coat Health
Even though the coat is removed, protein remains vital for maintaining skin health and supporting regrowth.
Amino acids such as methionine, lysine, and cystine are essential for producing keratin, the building block of healthy hair.
Ensure the diet includes high-quality protein sources such as alfalfa or soya meal.
3. Essential Vitamins, Minerals, and Omega-3s
Clipping removes some of the coat’s natural protection, exposing the skin to the elements.
Biotin, zinc, and copper support healthy skin and coat regrowth.
Vitamin E and selenium help reduce oxidative stress, especially in horses in regular work.
Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) are highly beneficial for clipped horses as they:
Support skin health and coat shine
Reduce inflammation and dryness
Strengthen the immune system and aid recovery after exercise
Feeding adjustments only go so far - good management is just as important.
Rugging: Match rug weight to your horse’s condition, workload, and the weather. Avoid both over-rugging (which can cause overheating) and under-rugging (which can lead to weight loss).
Shelter: Ensure clipped horses have adequate protection from wind and rain when turned out.
Routine checks: Regularly assess body condition, adjust feed as necessary, and check skin health under rugs.
Clipping makes winter management easier and keeps horses more comfortable in work, but it also alters their nutritional needs. By increasing forage, maintaining balanced nutrient intake, and managing rugs and shelter carefully, you can help your horse stay healthy, shiny, and in great condition throughout the winter months.
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