Cold Weather and Horse Leg Swelling: What’s Normal & What’s Not
Winter brings a lot of things—mud, blankets, frozen water buckets. But for many horse owners, it also brings an unexpected issue: leg swelling.
If your horse’s legs look puffier in the morning or after standing in the stall during a cold snap, you’re not imagining things. Here’s what it means—and what to do about it.
Why Cold Weather Can Cause Swelling
When temperatures drop, your horse’s circulation slows—especially to the lower limbs. Combine that with less movement (hello, stall time), and fluid can begin to pool in the legs. This is similar to stocking up, but the cold can make it worse.
Common causes include:
- Restricted movement from stalled days
- Cold-induced circulation slowdown
- Aging lymphatic systems in older horses
- Standing on hard or frozen footing
What’s Normal and What’s Not
✅ Normal winter swelling:
- Soft, even swelling in both hind legs
- No heat or lameness
- Goes away after turnout or hand walking
❌ Not normal (call your vet):
- One-sided swelling
- Heat, pain, or stiffness
- Sudden onset with no known cause
How to Prevent Cold Weather Swelling
- Keep them moving. Turnout is best—even in cold weather. If turnout isn’t an option, try hand walking or using a walker.
- Apply Draw It Out® Gel. Our liniment supports healthy circulation with no burn or chill. Use daily on lower legs to reduce fluid buildup.
- Use standing wraps if your horse stocks up regularly during cold nights.
- Check hydration. Dehydration in winter is common and can worsen swelling.
Winter Essentials for Circulation Support
- Draw It Out® 16oz High Potency Gel – safe, daily-use support in any season
- MasterMudd™ EquiBrace – for stiffer joints or persistent puffiness
- IceBath Recovery Solution – optional for indoor recovery after intense work
FAQs About Cold Weather Swelling in Horses
Should I be worried if my horse swells up every winter?
Not necessarily—but you should support circulation daily and monitor for changes. Chronic or worsening swelling deserves a vet consult.
Does cold therapy help in winter?
Only if the horse is actively sore or swollen after exercise. Otherwise, cold therapy isn't usually necessary for simple stocking up.
Is it safe to use liniment when it’s freezing?
Yes—Draw It Out® is alcohol-free and won’t cause chilling. Just make sure it dries before blanketing if you apply it over large areas.
Winter legs don’t have to puff up. Add Draw It Out® to your cold season kit and keep your horse moving and feeling their best.