When the wind howls around the stables, leaves rustle and the nights draw in… you may know the scene: your horse suddenly turns every shadow into something to watch. A plastic bag, a bird taking flight, a door slamming — and there he goes again. Winter brings more than just cold: it also brings tension.
Many horses become more sensitive during this season: less turnout, less movement and more time in the stable mean energy builds up that has to go somewhere. And you, as a rider, feel that immediately. Discover how with the right feed, care and support you can maintain your horse’s calm — so you both make it through the winter together in ease.
The foundation: calm starts in the feed
Calm doesn’t begin in the head, but in the gut. A healthy digestion is the key to a stable mindset. A horse that receives enough fibre and can chew throughout the day produces saliva continuously — which keeps stomach and intestines balanced. So make sure your horse gets enough roughage even in winter. A guideline: at least 1.5% of bodyweight in dry matter per day. For a 600 kg horse that’s about 9 kg of hay.
Many horses receive different feed in winter than in summer. That makes sense: their energy needs change, they move less but still must keep warm. Choose fibre-rich feeds that support digestion and release energy gradually. This helps avoid the excess energy you sometimes feel in the stable or in the arena.
For horses at rest or less active, Cavalor FiberForce is an excellent choice: it combines fibre with low sugar and starch. That way your horse gets fuel — but no spikes in energy or “spooky” behaviour. For older horses or those that lose weight easily, Cavalor Strucomix Senior is a good option — easily digestible with long fibres and more protein. Want to add extra fibre to your horse’s ration? Then Cavalor Strucomash Beet, a mash rich in fibre from beet pulp flakes and other fibre sources, is a perfect supplement.
If your horse is still in training, you can combine Fiberforce with your sport feed to reach the correct energy level.
Maintaining the calm
And then there’s the mental side. Some horses need extra support in this period to stay calm. You’ll notice small signs: they tense their back, look around more, react quicker. That behaviour isn’t just difficult for you — it’s a sign their nervous system is under extra load.
Neurotransmitters, the messengers of the nervous system, also influence behaviour. One of these is GABA, a natural “brake” for stimuli in the brain. When this system is balanced, your horse stays calmer and more focused — even in high-stimulus situations.
This is where Cavalor Calm comes in. This supplement is specially developed for horses that are quickly affected by their environment. The new formula contains a higher dose of magnesium and L-tryptophan — two substances that help reduce tension and stabilise mood. In addition, calming herbs like Camellia sinensis and Melissa officinalis are added, which contribute to relaxation without causing drowsiness. What makes Cavalor Calm unique is the addition of yeasts that support gut health. Because a healthy gut communicates with the brain — the so-called gut-brain axis. By strengthening that connection, the supplement contributes to both physical and mental calm.
Winterailments lying in wait
Aside from altered energy, you also see more minor problems in winter. Wet paddocks or more time in the stable mean moisture, ammonia, and less fresh air — ideal conditions for thrush or mites. And horses that move less may struggle to maintain weight.
Prevention is key here. Keep hooves dry and clean, and treat early problems immediately. A product like Cavalor Dry Feet, based on natural pre- and probiotics — helps keep the sole dry and healthy. For the skin, Cavalor MudDoc is a true winter hero: the combination of aloe vera, lavender and tea tree supports circulation and helps the skin recover in case of mites or irritation.
In harmony through winter
Winter doesn’t have to be a time of stress or discomfort. With the right balance of feed, care and support you can ensure your horse continues to feel good — in body and mind. With Cavalor FiberForce, Strucomash Beet, Dry Feet, MudDoc and Cavalor Calm you have everything in hand to turn winter into a harmonious period again. Because even during the Spooky Season: a relaxed horse is a happy horse.
