As autumn rolls into winter, our horses face a very different set of challenges. Shorter days, more time stabled, wet muddy fields and an increase in viral pressures all put their immune systems under strain. Supporting your horse through this seasonal transition isn’t just about keeping them comfortable - it’s about strengthening their natural defences from the inside out.
Why Winter Challenges the Immune System
More stabling, less movement – When horses spend longer periods indoors, they’re more exposed to stable dust and airborne irritants. Reduced natural exercise in the field also means circulation and digestion may slow down, which impacts overall resilience.
Muddy, wet conditions – Winter turnout often means mud fever, skin irritations and the extra stress of damp conditions. A healthy immune system is key to fending off infections that thrive in this environment.
Higher viral pressure – With horses in closer contact during clinics, competitions or yard routines, the risk of coughs, colds and viruses rises during colder months. A robust immune system is your horse’s first line of defence.
Nutritional gaps – Grass quality declines significantly in winter. Lower levels of vitamins and antioxidants in the diet mean the immune system doesn’t always get the nutrients it needs to stay strong.
How Nutrition Can Help
The immune system relies on a steady supply of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and plant compounds to function properly. Diets low in these essentials can leave horses vulnerable, while the right balance supports:
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Faster recovery after exercise or illness
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Healthier skin and coat during damp, muddy months
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Greater resilience against seasonal coughs, colds and infections
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Improved overall wellbeing and energy
Botanical Boost: Natural Support for Winter Resilience
At Radiance Gold, we created Botanical Boost to strengthen horses’ natural immunity and support them through periods of challenge - exactly like the shift from autumn into winter.
Botanical Boost contains:
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Echinacea – shown to support immune function and help horses respond to viral challenges.
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Slippery elm – soothing for the digestive tract, which is closely linked to immune health.
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Seaweed – rich in natural trace minerals often lacking in winter forage.
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Oregano – a natural plant compound with antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits.
Feeding Botanical Boost through the colder months provides an extra layer of defence, helping your horse stay healthy and bright even when the conditions aren’t on your side.
The Radiance Gold Team Tips for Winter
Our teams personal top tips for winter success
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“One simple tip from me is looking at your feed, balancers and supplements ahead of the routine and ensuring they cover all required vitamins and minerals and if you have any horses with respiratory issues ensuring this is accounted for- even with the best quality bedding and soaked or steamed hay horses will inevitably have an increase in dust over the winter stable months.”- Clare, Owner
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“For me, it’s all about instilling good ground work going into the winter- if you have a young horse or cheeky character the extra pent up energy from extra stable time and other yard members handling your horse can allow bad behaviours to creep in. Getting ‘good behaviour’ established before the change in routine means everyone’s happy and knows where they stand!”- Amy
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“I always recommend integrating the winter feed into the routine nice and early if you know you’re going to need a different feed or balancer over the winter months. Ensuring you gradually add it to the feed prevents any stomach issues!”- Vickie
Bringing It All Together
Winter doesn’t have to mean a dip in your horse’s health. By combining good management practices with immune-focused nutrition, you can keep your horse strong, shiny and ready for the season ahead.
Botanical Boost is a natural way to give your horse’s immune system the extra resilience it needs - so they can face the mud, the stables and the winter chill with confidence.