Are you and your horse ready for the season switch? As we step into spring, we welcome longer days, warmer weather, and (hopefully) drier fields. But for our four-legged friends, this transition can bring its own set of challenges. From rug rubs to muddy legs and that itchy shedding season, it’s essential to adapt your horse’s care routine. In this blog, we’ll explore how to support your horse’s skin health naturally.

Rug rubs: Keeping your horse comfortable

After a long winter tucked up in rugs, some of our horses develop rubs - those annoying bald patches on the shoulders, withers, or chest. It’s frustrating to see, but the good news is there are easy ways you can help!

• Check the fit: A well fitted rug should allow freedom of movement without slipping or pinching.
• Try a shoulder guard or bib: This can reduce friction and protect more sensitive areas.

• Clean your rugs: Dirt and sweat build up can increase irritation, so wash your rugs regularly.

• Allow rug-free time where possible: If conditions allow, giving your horse some time without a rug can help relieve pressure on the affected areas.

Winning the constant battle against the mud

Spring showers keep the paddocks muddy and that means a higher risk of mud related issues. These often come with itchy irritated skin and a loss of coat condition, especially on the heels and lower legs.

Here are a few things worth trying to help support your horse on muddy fields:

• Keep your horses’ legs as clean and dry as possible: Gently remove mud, but don’t over-wash, as that can strip away protective oils. Where possible, fence off dry areas available for grazing.

• Barrier creams for the win: A water-resistant balm can help block and protect against wet, muddy conditions.
• Support skin from the inside out: Feeding a supplement such as TurmerItch full of essential oils (terpenoids), polypehnols (such as quercetin) and antioxidants from natural sources can help maintain skin integrity and assist in the horse’s immune system.

Coat Shedding Season: Tackling the Itch & Loose Hair

Is your horse currently shedding more hair than you thought possible? Yes? Welcome to shedding season! While it’s totally natural, some horses can get extra itchy or a little sensitive as their coat transitions. Here are a few tips to help support a smooth shed this spring:

• Grooming, grooming, and more grooming: Using shedding tools such as curry combs will be your new best friend to help remove that loose hair and stimulate skin circulation. Regular grooming also spreads natural oils, which supports your horse's overall coat health.
• Hydration matters: Ensure your horse has access to fresh water and consider adding a wet feed to their diet if your horse is prone to dehydration. Soaked mashes like Speedi-Beet supply highly digestible fibre and soaks 5 x its own dry weight in water, providing 12.5 litres of water intake for every 1kg dry scoop when soaked as recommended.

• Encourage rolling: If possible, turn your horse out in a dry, sandy area where they can roll, helping loosen dead hair. Think of it as natural skin exfoliation!

The change in seasons doesn’t have to mean skin struggles! With a little extra attention to grooming, rug fit, and nutrition, your horse will step into spring feeling and looking their best!

For more information on all round skin care and coat condition contact our friendly team at The Golden Paste Company on 01423 503 319 or email info@goldenpastecompany.com.