Practical guide with Empire Sapphire products to keep your horse healthy, warm and happy during the cold months
1. Food and water in the cold months
During winter, horses consume more energy to maintain their body temperature, so it is essential to ensure a diet rich in quality forage and fresh, unfrozen water.
Empire Sapphire Tip:
- Provide dry, clean hay several times a day.
- Ensure the water is at the right temperature and doesn't freeze.
- Add natural supplements or oils if the horse loses weight.
(We currently do not offer heated troughs, but you can check out our range of daily care products here).
2. Shelter and warmth: protect your horse from the cold
Although horses have winter coats, they need shelter and protection from damp, wind and rain.
If your horse is clipped, older or sensitive to the cold, a good waterproof rug is essential.
Find the ideal rug in our horse rugs section:
- Breathable and lightweight rugs for indoor use.
- Thicker and more resistant models for outdoor use.
- Anatomical fastenings that prevent chafing and ensure comfort.
Empire Sapphire Tip: Check the rug and the skin underneath it every day to avoid dampness or irritation.
3. Care for hooves and legs in mud and damp conditions
Winter is the toughest season for hooves. Constant mud and excessive dampness can weaken them and cause cracks or abscesses.
Recommended product:
Hoof Dressing with Tar – Kevin Bacon’s
Protects, nourishes and strengthens the hoof even in conditions of extreme dampness. Its natural formula with tar helps maintain elasticity and prevents infections.
✨ Empire Sapphire Tip:
Apply the ointment 2-3 times a week to clean, dry hooves. Ideally after work or after cleaning hooves after mud.
4. Skin and coat care
Cold and damp can cause irritation, rashes or "mud fever". Keeping the skin clean and dry is essential.
Star products for this season:
-
Natural Tea Tree Shampoo 500 ml by Animaderm
→ Deep cleans and has antiseptic properties. Ideal for sensitive skin or skin irritated by mud.
-
Derfongen 250 ml – Animaderm
→ Effective treatment against “mud fever” (cracked heels) and cracked skin.
Empire Sapphire Tip:
Wash affected legs and areas with lukewarm water, dry thoroughly and apply Derfongen with a gentle massage.
5. Exercise routine adapted to winter
Daily exercise remains vital even in the cold months. It helps maintain the horse's circulation, muscle tone and mental well-being.
Empire Tips:
- Work in an indoor arena or on surfaces with good traction.
- Avoid icy or muddy surfaces.
- After exercise, dry off sweat thoroughly before rugging.
For the rider, comfort and style are also key:
CLASSIC Competition Jacket – Empire Sapphire
An elegant and breathable garment, perfect for riding in any season.
✅ 6. Quick checklist for winter care
Use this list as a guide for your daily routine:
Quality forage always available
Clean, ice-free water
Daily check of rugs and skin
Regular cleaning and greasing of hooves
Skin care with natural products
Exercise adapted to terrain and weather
All Empire Sapphire products are designed to offer quality, well-being and elegance to horse and rider throughout the year.
Discover the complete collection in our Horse section.