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Shedding in horses: from a hairy winter coat to a summer shine

Fiebe De Win

3 min

Verharen bij paarden: van een harige wintervacht naar een zomerse glans

It's spring, and you can see it... and feel it! Your horse is in the middle of shedding its coat, and the hair is literally flying all over your head. Your clothes? Covered. Your brush? Full. Putting on lip balm just before grooming? Not right now...  

Shedding takes a lot of energy from your horse and puts the immune system to work. Fortunately, you can help : with the right support, the transition from soft , fluffy teddy bear to beautiful summer shine a lot smoother.  

Why to shed Like this tiring is for horses  

The coat is becoming two times a year complete replace and that is a real war of attrition for the metabolism . In the spring the fat winter coat is shed to place at to make for the lighter summer coat . This does not cost only energy , but also an extra portion nutrients such as proteins , vitamins and trace elements . The coat change is becoming mainly organized by the length of the daylight : as the days get longer , It your horse 's body It signal to get rid of fur at to change .  

Mainly older or weaker horses to have often effort of this process . The eight- way switch , also called the trough, can drag on for a long time . The coat can become dull and your horse can feel tired and listless look out . In such fallen is targeted support extra important .  

Support from within: nutrients that facilitate shedding  

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in helping a horse navigate the transition . Here's our special selection of nutritional supplements to help:  

Vitalbix Linseed Oil

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat. It can also support metabolism and have an anti-inflammatory effect .  

Orthosal zinc from Navalis Nutraceuticals

Zinc is essential for your horse's skin and coat . This product provides organically bound zinc, which is particularly well- absorbed and can help with flaky skin or a dull coat.  

Biotin from Reverdy

As the main building block for keratin, biotin ensures strong hair growth and simultaneously improves hoof quality: a real all-rounder rounder !  

Practical tips for coat change  

  • Brush, brush, and more brushing! Daily brushing removes loose hair , promotes blood circulation, and gives the coat a beautiful shine. Rubber brushes or special shedding brushes are ideal for this.
  • Don't forget the protein! High-quality protein is crucial for healthy hair growth. Alfalfa, soy, or brewer's yeast can serve as natural protein sources.  
  • No stress! A structured daily routine and a calm environment help prevent unnecessary stress for your horse .
  • Exercise helps. Whether it's a relaxing stroll in the pasture or a short ride, activity stimulates the metabolism and accelerates coat shedding .
  • Drinking is important! Sufficient water supports metabolism and helps the body remove old hair cells more quickly.  

The annual coat change is a major challenge for both you and your horse. But with the right care, a smart boost of nutrients, and a little patience, you'll get through it smoothly. Before you know it, your horse will be shining in its summer coat!  

And the best part is: all the birds busy with their nests can really use your horse's soft hair to make it extra cozy. Soon they'll be snug in their nests, stylishly decorated with horse fur!  

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