That’s where horse mats come in handy. These mats are crucial not only for protecting your property but also for ensuring your horse remains healthy and comfortable. They help prolong your horse’s life by shielding their hooves from everyday wear and tear.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into why good quality horse mats are so important and how they can benefit you and your equine friend.
Table of Contents
What are Horse Mats?
Horse mats are specially designed matting solutions created with the needs of horses in mind. They come in a variety of materials, including rubber, plastic, and even wood, each offering different benefits depending on your specific requirements. Whether you’re setting them up in stables, arenas, or paddocks, horse mats serve multiple purposes. They provide a cushioned and safe surface for your horse to stand on, reducing the risk of injuries and discomfort. Additionally, they help protect your horse’s hooves from harsh surfaces, preventing cracks and chips that can lead to more serious health issues.
Beyond hoof protection, horse mats are excellent for maintaining a clean environment. They absorb urine and manure, making stall maintenance much easier and keeping your horse’s living area hygienic. Outdoors, you might place exterior rubber mats under feeders to keep the area tidy and prevent slips, or along walkways and aisles to stop mud and dirt from being tracked into your stable or arena. With so many types available on the market, it’s important to choose the right mat that fits both your horse’s needs and your specific setting.
Why are Horse Mats Important?
Horse mats play a vital role in overall horse care, offering both comfort and protection. Here are some key reasons why incorporating horse mats into your setup is essential:
1. Reduce Joint Strain
One of the standout benefits of horse mats is their ability to reduce joint strain. Horses’ joints endure significant stress, especially when they spend long periods in a stable. The cushioning provided by mats helps to lessen this strain, potentially reducing the risk of arthritis and other joint-related issues as your horse ages. For horses already dealing with joint problems, mats can offer much-needed comfort and support, making their day-to-day movements easier and less painful.
2. Prevent Hoof Damage
While horses have sturdy hooves, constant walking on hard surfaces can still cause damage over time. Horse mats provide a softer walking surface, which helps prevent cracks and chips in the hooves. This not only keeps your horse’s hooves in better condition but also enhances their overall mobility and comfort. Mats are especially beneficial for horses with existing hoof issues, offering additional cushioning to support their recovery and ongoing hoof health.
3. Insulate Against Cold Weather
Keeping your horse warm during the colder months is crucial, especially if they’re housed outdoors. Horse mats act as an insulating layer, helping to retain heat and provide a warmer environment for your horse. Lining the inside of the stable with mats can make a significant difference in keeping your horse comfortable. Additionally, placing mats underneath blankets adds an extra layer of insulation, which is particularly beneficial for older horses or those with health conditions that make them more vulnerable to the cold.
4. Keep Your Horse Clean
Maintaining cleanliness in your horse’s stall is much easier with horse mats. They effectively absorb urine and manure, keeping the stall environment cleaner and more hygienic. This not only benefits your horse’s health by reducing the risk of infections and irritations but also makes your maintenance routine simpler and more efficient. Outdoors, mats in walkways and aisles prevent mud and dirt from being tracked into your stable or arena, ensuring a cleaner space for both you and your horse. Plus, horse mats are easy to clean and maintain, making them a cost-effective alternative to traditional stable bedding that needs regular replenishing.
5. Provide Comfort
Beyond their practical benefits, horse mats simply make life more comfortable for your horse. Since horses spend a lot of time standing, having a soft, cushioned surface to stand on can significantly improve their comfort. Horse mats relieve pressure on their feet and legs, making long periods of standing less taxing. This added comfort can enhance your horse’s overall well-being, making them happier and healthier.
Equestrian Owner Insight:
"Good stable matting makes a big difference in a horses' gait and behaviour. It reduces hoof wear and provides a much more forgiving surface during turns"
Horse & Hound, 2023
Key Advantages of Using Rubber Horse Mats
One of the most popular types of horse mat are rubber stable tiles. This is mainly due to their anti fatigue properties and shock absorption as well as their ease of maintenance and care. With their built in drainage channels and heavy duty construction, rubber stall mats can be used wash bays, walkways and as stall matting making them ideal for all equine needs.
Let's look at the plus-points of rubber horse mats:
How to Choose the Right Horse Mats
Selecting the perfect horse mat involves considering several factors to ensure it meets both your horse’s needs and your specific environment. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Size: The size of the mat should correspond to the size of your horse and the area where it will be placed. Ensure the mat is large enough for your horse to lie down comfortably but not so large that it occupies too much space in the stall or pasture. A well-sized mat ensures your horse has ample space to move and rest without feeling cramped. A 500cm x 500cm or 1m x 1m mats are a good size for most equine facilities.
- Thickness: The thickness of the mat is another crucial factor. You want a mat that’s thick enough to provide cushioning and support but not so thick that it becomes difficult for your horse to stand up on. A balanced thickness will offer the right amount of comfort without compromising your horse’s mobility. We recommend using a thickness of 30mm +.
- Material: The material of the mat affects both its durability and comfort. Horse mats are typically made from rubber, PVC, or a combination of both. Rubber mats are known for their durability and ease of cleaning, making them a long-lasting choice. PVC mats are lighter, which might be preferable if you need to move them frequently. Consider the specific needs of your environment and your horse when choosing the material.
- Price: Horse mats come in a range of prices. While it might be tempting to go for the cheaper option, investing in a high-quality, hardwearing, heavy duty horse mats can be more cost-effective in the long run. Durable mats last longer and require less frequent replacement, saving you money and effort over time.
How to Care for Your Horse Mats
Proper care and maintenance of your horse mats will ensure they remain in good condition and continue to provide the benefits your horse needs.
Here are some tips to keep your mats in top shape:
- Clean Your Horse Mats Regularly - Sweeping or vacuuming your horse mats frequently helps keep them free of dirt and debris. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of manure and urine, maintaining a hygienic environment for your horse. Additionally, always check for and remove any sharp objects that could puncture or damage the mats.
- Use Non-Bio Detergent - When washing your horse mats, opt for a non-bio detergent to avoid irritating your horse’s sensitive skin. After washing, make sure to rinse the mats thoroughly to remove all detergent residues. Avoid using solvents or harsh chemicals, as these can be harmful to both the mats and your horse.
- Allow the Mats to Dry Completely - After cleaning, let your mats dry completely before placing them back in the stall. Proper drying helps prevent the growth of mould and mildew, which can be harmful to your horse’s health. Ensure the mats are completely dry to maintain a clean and safe environment.
- Inspect the Mats Regularly - Regularly inspect your horse mats for any signs of wear and tear. Look out for holes, tears, or significant wear that could compromise the mat’s effectiveness. If you find any damage, replace the mats immediately to ensure your horse continues to have a comfortable and safe place to stand and rest.
FAQs About Horse Mats
If you have questions about horse mats, you’re not alone. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions, answered by the experts:
Do horse mats really make a difference?
Absolutely. Horse mats can significantly enhance your horse’s comfort and health by providing cushioning and support. This helps prevent injuries and keeps your horse comfortable, especially during exercise and long periods of standing.
How thick should horse mats be?
They need to be fairly thick to support your horse and remain durable. We suggest opting for a 30mm or 40mm thicknesses or above.
Do horse mats smell?
New horse mats might have a slight odour when first installed, but this typically dissipates quickly. If odours are a concern, look for mats made with antimicrobial materials that resist odour-causing bacteria.
How long do horse mats last?
Horse mats are built to be durable, but their lifespan depends on usage and maintenance. With proper care, horse mats can last for several years, providing ongoing benefits for your horse and your property.
How do I clean horse mats?
Cleaning horse mats is straightforward. Use a hose or pressure washer to remove dirt and debris. For tougher stains, a mild soap and water solution works well. Be sure to rinse the mats thoroughly to eliminate any soap residue before allowing them to dry completely. It is also important to choose a mat material that allows for easy drainage. Opt for self draining mats with integrated moisture channels.
Are horse stall mats worth it?
Definitely. Horse stall mats are a great investment for any horse owner. They provide essential comfort and support for your horse while protecting and extending the life of your stall floor. The benefits they offer make them well worth the investment.
Conclusion
Horse mats might not be the most glamorous addition to your horse care routine, but they are undeniably important. From providing comfort and reducing joint strain to keeping your horse’s environment clean and safe, horse mats offer a multitude of benefits that contribute to your horse’s overall well-being. They also help preserve your horse’s hooves and extend the life of your stable flooring, making them a practical and valuable investment.
When choosing horse mats, consider the size, thickness, material, and price to find the perfect fit for your horse and your specific needs.
Ready to give your horse the comfort they deserve? Check out our range of high-quality horse mats and make a positive difference in your horse’s daily life.
