25/10/2026
🐴 FOOD FOR THOUGHT: WHAT BEDDING IS BEST FOR YOUR HORSE? 🐴
Did you know there are several different types of bedding you can use in a horse's stable? Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to understand the options before deciding what's best for your horse.
Sawdust or wood shavings
Absorb urine well, help control moisture and provide a soft, comfortable surface. However, they need regular cleaning and can be dusty depending on the product.
🌾 Straw
Provides a natural, comfortable bed that many horses enjoy lying on. However, it can be less absorbent than some alternatives, and some horses may eat it, which can be unsuitable for certain individuals.
🖤 Rubber mats
Provide a more cushioned surface underfoot, helping reduce the hardness of a stable floor. They can also reduce the amount of bedding required. However, they may still need bedding on top where necessary, and urine and moisture mustn't be allowed to collect underneath them.
📰 Newspaper
Can be useful for horses that need low-dust bedding, as it can be less dusty than some traditional options. However, it can become slippery when wet, may need frequent replacement and isn't always readily available in sufficient quantities.
❤️ What do we use at Avoca Park?
We use a combination of rubber mats and sawdust in our stables.
The rubber mats provide a more cushioned surface for our horses to stand on, while the sawdust absorbs urine and helps us remove manure and moisture during daily cleaning. It also provides an extra layer of comfort for horses when they lie down to rest.
There isn't one perfect bedding choice for every horse. Factors such as respiratory health, allergies, how much time a horse spends in its stable, absorbency, drainage and ease of cleaning all need to be considered.
🐎 Good horsemanship means looking at the little details that contribute to our horses' wellbeing. And choosing the right bedding is one of them!
What type of bedding do you use for your horse and why? We'd love to hear your experiences! 👇
