During good weather, horses enjoy the open fields and green grass, but the rest of the time may be spent in a barn. Even though they are large, robust creatures, many have health problems with their hooves and legs. Traditional hard floor surfaces in the barn may not be ideal for these animals. Many farmers today put down horse stall flooring mats made of yielding materials, such as rubber.
Hard surfaces with no "give" may cause joint problems for animals forced to stay inside for long periods. The materials used in most mats will better yield to the weight of an animal, preventing injury and encouraging speedier recovery from old health issues. And, unlike concrete or other rigid surfaces, softer mats substantially cut down on the possibility of an animal suffering from stress problems, or sore points.
In colder climates, winter chills the barn. Flexible mats, however, form a barrier that naturally insulates the area between the comforting straw, and the cold floor. Not only do they experience warmer stalls, but there is also a decreased chance of dangerous slipping and falling. When infections or other problems are present, the stall must be sterilized after cleaning, and mats can also make that process less complicated.
Most horses defecate and urinate randomly. Interlocking mats are designed to allow urine to escape through the sectional joints, but buildup is still a big issue. Unless the underside of the mats get regularly and thoroughly cleaned, nature will take its course, producing unhealthy, smelly ammonia gas. It can burns the eyes of horses and people alike, and must not be allowed to form.
Even though the material used in these mats is softer than a regular wood or concrete floor, some users say it is a mistake not to augment that rubber surface with regular organic bedding. Wile the mats perform some bedding functions, most animals seem happier with additional soft, textured material for sleeping and comfort. Even though a rubber mat is yielding, it is not that much different looking from an uninviting bare floor.
Sections of flexible stall padding work best when placed on top of standard materials, never on bare sand or soil. Asphalt, concrete or wood are all excellent bases for the interlocking pieces, holding them securely in place in order to prevent tearing or forming dangerously uneven areas. Both rubber and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) are long-lasting materials, one organically derived, and the other petroleum-based.
Thicker, heavier sections are recommended for adequate coverage of large spaces. This often works better than trying to connect several smaller, interlinking pieces, because movement is reduced. It pays to purchase the best quality available. Materials are sometimes mixed to produce a less expensive covering, but if the product guarantee is for five to ten years, the quality is usually high.
While not every owner prefers this type of horse stall flooring, the advantages are numerous. The mats are easily cut to fit, and the interlocking edges create a more seamless surface, while allowing drainage. The additional cost may be a factor for some farmers, but the time saved in cleaning out traditional bedding can be substantial. The animals benefit from standing and sleeping more comfortably, and endure less stress.
Hard surfaces with no "give" may cause joint problems for animals forced to stay inside for long periods. The materials used in most mats will better yield to the weight of an animal, preventing injury and encouraging speedier recovery from old health issues. And, unlike concrete or other rigid surfaces, softer mats substantially cut down on the possibility of an animal suffering from stress problems, or sore points.
In colder climates, winter chills the barn. Flexible mats, however, form a barrier that naturally insulates the area between the comforting straw, and the cold floor. Not only do they experience warmer stalls, but there is also a decreased chance of dangerous slipping and falling. When infections or other problems are present, the stall must be sterilized after cleaning, and mats can also make that process less complicated.
Most horses defecate and urinate randomly. Interlocking mats are designed to allow urine to escape through the sectional joints, but buildup is still a big issue. Unless the underside of the mats get regularly and thoroughly cleaned, nature will take its course, producing unhealthy, smelly ammonia gas. It can burns the eyes of horses and people alike, and must not be allowed to form.
Even though the material used in these mats is softer than a regular wood or concrete floor, some users say it is a mistake not to augment that rubber surface with regular organic bedding. Wile the mats perform some bedding functions, most animals seem happier with additional soft, textured material for sleeping and comfort. Even though a rubber mat is yielding, it is not that much different looking from an uninviting bare floor.
Sections of flexible stall padding work best when placed on top of standard materials, never on bare sand or soil. Asphalt, concrete or wood are all excellent bases for the interlocking pieces, holding them securely in place in order to prevent tearing or forming dangerously uneven areas. Both rubber and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) are long-lasting materials, one organically derived, and the other petroleum-based.
Thicker, heavier sections are recommended for adequate coverage of large spaces. This often works better than trying to connect several smaller, interlinking pieces, because movement is reduced. It pays to purchase the best quality available. Materials are sometimes mixed to produce a less expensive covering, but if the product guarantee is for five to ten years, the quality is usually high.
While not every owner prefers this type of horse stall flooring, the advantages are numerous. The mats are easily cut to fit, and the interlocking edges create a more seamless surface, while allowing drainage. The additional cost may be a factor for some farmers, but the time saved in cleaning out traditional bedding can be substantial. The animals benefit from standing and sleeping more comfortably, and endure less stress.
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Looking for a cost-effective rubber mats for your horses? These environmentally-friendly horse mats may be just what you need. These horse stall mats provide comfortable support for your horses, and help to relieve join pressure and can absorb shocks.
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