Winter Warning: The Hidden Threats Lurking in Your Horse’s Stable

When the winter months roll in, many horse owners assume that the cold weather naturally reduces the presence of germs and harmful microorganisms around the yard. After all, bugs disappear, the air is crisp, and everything feels cleaner. But this assumption can create a dangerous sense of complacency.

In reality, winter can actually increase the risks posed by certain pathogens — especially when horses are spending more time stabled, often in damp, enclosed environments where micro-organisms thrive. Of the three main categories of pathogens, viruses, bacteria, and fungi, it is bacteria and fungi that are particularly resilient during the cold season. They don't just survive… they can spread with ease in conditions created by winter management routines.

MYTH BUSTER: “Cold weather kills germs.”

This is one of the most common misconceptions in equine care. While cold temperatures may slow down certain micro-organisms, they absolutely do not eradicate them.

Bacterial and fungal spores are far more stubborn than many horse owners realise. A perfect example is ringworm, a highly contagious fungal infection that can remain alive in wood and porous surfaces indefinitely, regardless of the season. Once established, these spores can linger for months,  even years, waiting for the perfect moment to spread.

The Two Major Microbial Threats of Winter

1. Streptococcus equi (Strangles)

Streptococcus (Strep) is the bacteria that causes Strangles. Winter creates an ideal setting for the spread of strangles bacteria because the bacteria can survive for weeks in cold, damp environments. 

This includes:

• Stable walls
• Bedding
• Water
• Yard surfaces
• Wet soil

Many people turn to power washing to “clean” the yard in winter, but this method actually spreads contaminated droplets instead of killing bacteria. This can make a localised issue far worse.

The key isn’t more cleaning — it’s effective disinfection with a product that is proven to kill harmful bacteria rather than move them around.

2. Ringworm (Trichophyton spp.)

Ringworm is a fungal infection, and its spores are aggressively contagious. They can spread through:

• Horse to horse
• Through shared rugs, grooming kits, brushes, and pads
• From stable surfaces
• Even from horse to human

In winter, horses are rugged more heavily, stabled for longer, and exposed to more moisture. Rugs, girth sleeves, pads, and even grooming tools can trap warmth and dampness, creating the exact environment where fungi thrive.

This makes winter the perfect storm for ringworm outbreaks. Remember: Ringworm LOVES moisture. 

Winter Protection Starts With Proper Disinfection

Reducing winter risk isn’t only about cleaning; it’s about using a powerful disinfectant that targets and kills harmful bacteria and fungi at their source. That’s where our Equine Bio Genie products become an essential part of winter stable management.

Equine Bio Genie disinfectant is:
✓ Highly effective against bacteria, fungi, and spores
✓ Safe for horses, humans, and the environment
✓ Non-toxic and eco-friendly
✓ Residue-free — no rinsing required
✓ Proven to kill, not just clean

Using Equine Bio Genie throughout the winter months helps ensure stables, equipment, and surfaces remain inhospitable to the pathogens that flourish during cold weather.

A Year-Round Essential

While winter presents heightened risks, it’s important to remember that bacteria and fungi don’t disappear in spring and summer; they merely change behaviour. Consistent disinfection is the only foolproof way to stay ahead of outbreaks all year round. Find out more about our products and services on our website, or get in touch with one of the team for more information.