Horse Mats for Stables: Protection, Comfort, and Durability

If you have a horse, then you know that they can be pretty hard on the ground. Horses are constantly moving around, and their hooves can do a lot of damage to the surface underneath them. This is why it is important to use horse mats to protect your property. Horse mats are an essential part of keeping your horse healthy and comfortable, and they can also help to prolong the life of your horse by protecting their hooves from wear and tear. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of horse mats and how they can benefit yours.

What are Horse Mats?

Horse mats are a type of matting that is specifically designed for horses. Horse mats are made from a variety of materials, including rubber, plastic, and even wood. Horse mats can be used in a variety of settings, including stables, arenas, and paddocks.

Horse mats can provide a comfortable and safe surface for horses to stand on and can also help to protect the horse’s hooves from wear and tear. Horse mats can also be used to help keep a horse’s stall clean by absorbing urine and manure.

These outdoor mats are usually placed under horse feeders to help keep the area clean and to prevent horses from slipping. Horse mats can also be used in walkways and aisle ways to help keep horses from tracking mud and dirt into the stable or arena. There are a variety of different types of horse mats available on the market, so it is important to choose the right type of mat for your horse and your specific needs.

The Importance of Horse Mats

Horse mats are an important aspect of horse care. They provide a comfortable and safe place for your horse to stand, lie down, and roll around. They also help protect your horse's hooves from dirt, mud, and other debris. Here are some reasons why horse mats are important:

1. Reduce Joint Strain

One of the most important benefits of horse mats is that they help to reduce joint strain. Your horse's joints take a lot of wear and tear, especially if they are stabled for long periods of time. Horse mats provide cushioning that helps to reduce the amount of strain on your horse's joints. This can lead to less arthritis and other joint problems later on in life. In addition, mats can help horses with existing joint problems to feel more comfortable.

2. Prevent Hoof Damage

Another benefit of horse mats is that they can help prevent hoof damage. Horses' hooves are tough but can still be damaged by walking on hard surfaces all day long. Horse mats provide a softer surface for your horse to walk on, which can help to prevent hooves from cracking or chipping. Mats can also help horses with existing hoof problems by providing additional cushioning.

3. Insulate Against Cold Weather

Horse mats can also be used to insulate against cold weather. If your horse is stabled outside, you can use mats to line the inside of the stable to help keep your horse warm during cold weather months. Mats can also be used underneath blankets to create an extra layer of insulation. This is especially important for older horses or horses with health conditions that make them more susceptible to the cold.

4. Keep Your Horse Clean

Horse mats can also help to keep your horse clean. Using mats in your horse's stall will absorb urine and manure, which can help keep the stall cleaner. In addition, mats can be used in walkways and aisle ways to help keep horses from tracking mud and dirt into the stable or arena. Horse mats are simple to keep clean and maintain which is more cost-effective than alternative stable bedding which has to be replenished on a regular basis.

5. Provide Comfort

In addition to all of the practical benefits of horse mats, they can also simply make your horse more comfortable. Horses spend a lot of time standing, so it is important that they have a comfortable place to stand. Horse mats can provide cushioning that helps to relieve pressure on your horse's feet and legs. This can make standing for long periods of time more comfortable for your horse.

How to Choose the Right Horse Mats

There are a few things to consider when purchasing horse mats. Let's take a look at each one so you can make the best decision for your horse.

Size - The size of the mat will depend on the size of your horse and the area you're placing it in. You'll want to make sure the mat is large enough for your horse to comfortably lie down on but not so large that it takes up too much space in the stall or pasture.
Thickness - The thickness of the mat is also important to consider. You'll want a mat that's thick enough to provide cushioning and support but not so thick that it's difficult for your horse to stand up on.
Material - The material the mat is made from will also play a role in its durability and comfort. Horse mats are typically made from rubber, PVC, or a combination of both. Rubber is more durable and easier to clean, while PVC is more lightweight.
Price - Horse mats can range in price. Some are more durable than others and in the long run it is more cost effective to go for a hardwearing, high quality mat than a cheaper alternative that may need to be replaced after a short time.

With these factors in mind, you should be able to find the perfect horse mat for your needs. Our 30mm Rubber Stable Mats for horses are made from 100% recycled rubber and are perfect for all the above purposes. They're durable, comfortable, and easy to clean, making them a great option for any horse owner.

How to Care for Your Horse Mats

Horse mats are an important part of your horse's stall. They provide a comfortable place for your horse to rest and can help protect your horse's hooves from the hard floor. Here are some tips on how to care for your horse mats:

1. Clean your horse mats as often as possible

Sweeping or vacuuming your horse mats regularly will help to keep them clean and free of dirt and debris. Regularly check for and remove any sharp objects that could puncture the mats.

2. Use non-bio detergent

When washing your horse mats, use a non-bio detergent to avoid irritating your horse's skin. Rinse the mats well after washing to remove all traces of detergent. Solvents or other harsh chemicals should never be used on horse mats.

3. Allow the mats to dry completely

After washing, allow the mats to dry completely. This will help to prevent the growth of mould and mildew.

4. Inspect the mats regularly

Inspect your horse stable mats regularly for signs of wear and tear. If any holes or tears are found, replace the mats immediately. Horse mats that are in good condition will help to keep your horse comfortable and safe.

FAQs About Horse Mats

If you have questions about horse mats, chances are you're not alone. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about horse mats, answered by the experts.

Do horse mats really make a difference?

Yes. Horse mats can significantly affect your horse's comfort and health. They provide cushioning and support, which can help prevent injuries and help your horse stay comfortable during exercise.

Do horse mats smell?

Some horse mats may have a slight odour when first installed, but this will dissipate quickly. If you are concerned about odours, look for horse mats that are made with antimicrobial materials that resist odour-causing bacteria.

How long do horse mats last?

Horse mats are built to last, but how long they last will depend on how often they are used and how well they are cared for. With proper care, horse mats can last for years.

How do I clean horse mats?

Cleaning horse mats is easy - just use a hose or pressure washer to remove dirt and debris. For tougher stains, you can use a mild soap and water solution. Be sure to rinse the mats thoroughly afterward to remove any soap residue.

Are horse stall mats worth it?

Horse stall mats are a great investment for any horse owner. They provide comfort and support for your horse and can help extend the life of your stall floor by protecting it from wear and tear.

Conclusion

Horse mats may not be the most exciting purchase you make for your horse, but they are important. Horse mats provide many benefits that can help keep your horse healthy and comfortable.

They also help preserve your horse's life by protecting their hooves from wear and tear. When choosing horse mats, be sure to consider the size of your horse's stall, the type of flooring you have, and your budget.