How Cowboys Cared For Their Horses

In the 1800s, a cowboy’s horse was more than a tool—it was a lifeline. Whether driving cattle across vast prairies, chasing down strays, or navigating the rugged terrain of the American West, a cowboy depended on his mount for survival. As such, caring for the horse was not just a duty, but a deeply ingrained part of cowboy life. Despite the rough conditions and long hours, most cowboys took pride in keeping their horses healthy, fed, and ready to ride.

Daily care began with early morning feeding and watering. Horses were typically given grass, hay, or sometimes oats if available. On the open range, grazing was the norm, but during long drives or in dry regions, forage could be scarce. Cowboys would sometimes carry sacks of grain or alfalfa cubes, but more often, they led the horses to the best nearby grass they could find. Water was even more crucial—when traveling through arid country, cowboys prioritized watering the horses, often before quenching their own thirst.

Grooming was essential for preventing sores, especially before saddling. Cowboys would curry the horse’s coat with a rough brush or even a twist of grass, cleaning off dust, sweat, and mud. Particular attention was paid to the back and girth area—places where friction from saddles and cinches could cause painful saddle sores. If a horse developed such wounds, cowboys might rotate it out of service, treat it with homemade salves, or even pack it with soft cloth.

Hoof care was another critical aspect. Cowboys checked hooves daily for stones, cracks, or signs of lameness. If the horse was shod—and not all were—cowboys often carried a basic farrier kit including a rasp, hoof knife, nails, and sometimes spare horseshoes. Shoeing was often done by the ranch blacksmith, but many experienced cowboys learned to do it themselves when far from home.

Rest was crucial, too. On cattle drives, horses were rotated regularly. A cowboy might ride several different mounts over the course of a week to avoid overworking any one animal. Remudas (herds of spare horses) were managed by a wrangler who ensured the next horse was ready when needed. After a long ride, a good cowboy would walk his horse to cool it down, loosen the cinch, and let it roll in the dirt—natural behavior that helped relieve muscle tension and remove sweat.

Injuries and illness were common. Lameness, colic, saddle sores, and infections could all take a horse out of commission. Cowboys applied folk remedies: mustard plasters, whiskey rubs, and herbal concoctions were common. A sick or injured horse was never taken lightly; losing a mount could mean being stranded or out of work.

Though cowboys had a tough reputation, their bond with their horses ran deep. Many treated their animals with respect and affection, speaking to them gently, naming them, and learning their quirks. A horse wasn’t just transport—it was a partner. And on the lonely trails of the American frontier, sometimes it was the only friend a cowboy had.

To learn more about the lives of 19th century cowboys, check out the HOKC video linked below. Brought to you by History At The OK Corral: Home Of History’s Greatest Shootouts & Showdowns!