Deep Litter Method, or "Lazy Man's Way"
This involves starting with a whole lot of shavings, picking out the obvious manure, and adding more fresh bedding on top. It is what I prefer in my outdoor run-ins, as it builds up a decomposing base layer which helps to lift the floor level above any dampness and also adds warmth in the winter. I actually start with a layer of woodchips, and add sawdust on top. In the winter, I usually add chopped straw, as it really helps to insulate and keep them warm.
Usually the whole shebang is cleaned out completely once a year or so, which can be a massive job. Although I have seen this method used where the base layer decomposes at a rate that keeps the level of bedding pretty much even.... again, usually outside, and with few horses.
One big drawback to this method is the buildup of ammonia fumes, especially in a closed up area such as a barn. (Another reason it works better for outdoor runs). You also have to be sure to add enough fresh bedding on top to lift them away from any dampness and bacteria. Because manure gets mixed in with the shavings, it can cause issues with thrush and similar infections.
PROS:
- Once established, quick and easy
- Can provide extra cushioning
- Provides warmth in winter from decomposition
CONS:
- Very labor-intensive when complete cleaning becomes necessary
- Can cause buildup of ammonia fumes and breathing problems
- Can exacerbate thrush or fungal issues
Stall Mats + Very Light Sawdust
This method relies on the stall mats to provide cushioning, and just uses a dusting of sawdust or shavings to absorb urine and manure spots. It makes the stalls very easy to clean, but you must make sure there is sufficient cushioning under the mats so it is comfortable for the horse to lay down.
Types of Bedding Material
In my area, the options are pretty much baled straw, chopped straw, shavings, sawdust, and pelleted bedding. Here is my experience with the various types:
Baled straw:
Cheap, fluffs nicely to provide good insulation. However, it is an absolute bear to muck out! All the long fibers mat together, creating a very heavy mess. Additionally, for some reason soiled staw bedding stinks much more than the other types.... I have only noticed this when mucking out, not when walking into the stable.
Chopped straw:
Very easy to handle and spread, insulates, keeps coats very clean. The biggest downside is that horses may eat it, and eating too much can lead to impaction colic. But this stuff makes a soft, fluffy bed that I wouldn't mind sleeping on myself!
Shavings:
Light and fluffy, the wood shavings are larger than sawdust, and can be had usually in cedar or pine. Cedar smells nice and helps repel insects. However, this stuff sticks to everything, and you will find it a bit itchy when it works it's way under your bra. Can be hard to separate out when cleaning, so you do wind up throwing out some clean shavings with the dirty bedding.
Sawdust:
Easy to clean out and separate the dirty stuff. You do need a lot of it to provide sufficient cushion, as it tends to pack down easily. It is also prone to becoming dusty, which can be a big problem with a horse that has any sort of breathing problems, such as Heaves.
Pelleted wood:
I love this stuff! You have to soak the pellets before spreading it, and at that point it crumbles into sawdust. Due to the soaking step, it is less likely to be dusty, and it's an absolute dream to much out... sort of like cleaning a litter box, the poop clumps stick together, the pee spots are easy to see. It's also very easy to store, as you can stack the bags anywhere. If it does get wet, it expands inside the bag and tends to burst it, but I have just raked that stuff up and spread it... it doesn't go bad like wet feed would.
