Every year your horse experiences an important natural process: the change of coat.
This period is not only a challenge for your four-legged friend, but also for you as a responsible horse owner.
The change of coat prepares the horse for the climatic changes of the seasons and is a sign of health and adaptability.
As a horse lover, it is your responsibility to provide your horse with the best possible support during the coat change.
In this article, you will gain valuable insights into the process of shedding in horses and discover practical tips to help your horse master this natural process smoothly and healthily.
When does the coat change begin in horses and what happens during this process?
Shedding is a crucial process in a horse's life, during which it sheds its coat twice a year. This process is primarily triggered by changes in light intensity and day length . In autumn, when the days become shorter , this signals the horse to exchange its fine summer coat for a denser winter coat .
This denser coat helps the horse retain heat during the colder months. Conversely, as the days get longer in spring, the horse begins to shed its thick winter coat to develop a lighter summer coat for the warmer months . This seasonal change places enormous demands on the horse's metabolism and can present various challenges.
The adaptation of their coat to seasonal conditions is vital for horses' survival. It enables them to cope with changing temperatures and weather conditions .
The quality and speed of shedding can also provide clues to a horse 's overall health and well-being . Appropriate nutrition, grooming, and preventative health care therefore play an important role in helping horses with this natural process.
Shedding in spring: What changes?
The spring coat change, which usually begins between January and March , marks the transition from a dense winter coat to a lighter summer coat.
This transition is triggered by the increasing length of daylight after the winter solstice . The horse sheds its old winter coat, and the new, shorter summer coat begins to grow back. Unpredictable weather conditions, such as sudden cold snaps, can delay this process. Additionally, factors such as the ambient temperature and the horse's individual characteristics, such as breed and housing conditions , play a significant role in the development of the new summer coat.
Perfect for your horse: Pferdegold® supplementary feed!
These specially developed supplements support your horse's diet and provide it with natural nutrients. Made in Germany, grain-free and drug-free, they come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Try it now!Late-season coat change: What changes?
In late autumn, usually from September to November , the horse prepares for winter by replacing its lighter summer coat with a thicker winter coat. This process is triggered by the decreasing length of daylight around the summer solstice. The duration of the coat change and the nature of the new winter coat depend on various environmental conditions and the horse's individual characteristics.
This includes aspects such as prevailing temperatures and specific needs based on the horse's breed and living conditions.
The importance of support during coat change in horses
The coat change is a time of intense physical exertion for horses and represents a significant challenge for their metabolism.
During this phase, the need for energy and essential nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, and amino acids increases significantly. Older horses, horses with pre-existing conditions, or those already suffering from a nutrient deficiency can find the coat change particularly stressful.
The additional strain can lead to a variety of problems, including fatigue, reduced performance, susceptibility to infections, skin problems, circulatory problems, weight loss, and muscle and musculoskeletal problems .
Why is supporting the horse during the coat change so important?
Metabolic stress and liver support
The coat change requires intensive metabolic activity . The horse must not only grow new hair but also shed the old.
This process can lead to fatigue and listlessness , especially if liver function is impaired .
Targeted support of the liver, for example through special herbs, can improve digestion , relieve the intestines and thus promote a vital immune system for the coming season.
Increased nutrient requirements
During the shedding period, a horse's nutritional needs are increased. Micronutrients such as zinc, essential for the formation of keratin, the main component of hair , support cell division and the growth of hair and hair roots. Selenium, copper, and biotin are also important micronutrients for skin and hair health.
Importance of Omega-3 fatty acids
A deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids , which often occurs during the shedding period, can impair the elasticity of the hooves, skin regeneration and the micro-skin structure .
Feeding oils such as linseed, evening primrose, borage seed or hemp oil can be particularly valuable during this time.
Thermoregulation
A delayed or incomplete coat change can lead to problems with thermoregulation , which places additional strain on the horse's cardiovascular system .
It is therefore crucial to actively support the horse's coat change in order to promote its well-being and health.
The change of coat in horses: A challenge for the metabolism
The change of coat in horses is a complex process that has far-reaching effects on the animal's metabolism.
During this time, the horse's body works hard to shed the old coat and grow new one.
This process requires a lot of energy and nutrients, which places a great strain on the horse's metabolism, immune system and circulatory system.
Your horse must master these challenges:
Increased nutrient requirements: The change of coat increases the need for certain nutrients, especially minerals such as
- Zinc,
- Copper,
- Selenium and
- Sulfur,
- as well as proteins,
which are necessary for the growth of new hair. Zinc plays an important role in keratin formation, which is essential for the growth of hair and hair roots .
A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to lack of energy, dull and brittle fur, and increased susceptibility to infections.
Stress on the liver and kidneys: During the shedding period, the liver and kidneys can become overloaded.
This is particularly relevant if the horses are undergoing a feed change at the same time or are subjected to regular deworming and vaccinations.
Supporting these organs is crucial to avoid serious health problems .
Lymphatic system and circulation: The increased metabolism also places greater strain on the lymphatic system.
This can lead to complications such as lymphatic congestion , especially in the horse's legs, which can cause swelling and other problems .
Coat metabolism in older horses and horses with metabolic disorders: Everything you should know
Older horses and those with metabolic disorders face particular challenges when changing their coats .
These horses often have a slower metabolism , which can slow down and complicate the coat change.
The need for nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids is often higher in older horses because their bodies no longer function as efficiently.
It is therefore important to carefully monitor the diet of these horses and adjust it if necessary to support coat metabolism.
In addition, older horses and those with metabolic disorders may be more susceptible to skin problems and infections during the coat change .
Careful and tailored care is essential to support coat metabolism in older horses and horses with metabolic disorders and to promote their well-being.
Is flaky skin normal in the coat metabolism?
Flaky skin can be a common occurrence in horses during shedding. This symptom occurs when the old coat is shed and new hair grows in. In particular, if the horse exhibits flaky skin during shedding, this may indicate a skin reaction to this intensive process.
It is important to closely monitor the horse during this phase and ensure that skin health is maintained .
Good care, balanced nutrition and adequate hydration can help improve skin condition during shedding.
However, if the flaky skin persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian to rule out other skin problems.
What to do if there are problems with the coat change?
If problems arise during a horse's coat change, it is crucial to act quickly and appropriately.
Signs of shedding problems may include delayed shedding, dull or brittle fur , and general signs of discomfort.
A careful assessment of the horse's diet and general health is essential to identify and correct any nutritional deficiencies.
Additionally, adjusting coat care, such as regular grooming and brushing, can help support the coat change and reduce skin problems. However, in cases of persistent or severe problems, a veterinarian should always be consulted to initiate specific treatment and rule out serious health risks.
Mineral feed for horses: essential support during coat change
Mineral feeds play a crucial role in the nutrition of horses, especially during the shedding period. These supplements provide essential minerals and nutrients that are important for meeting the increased needs during the shedding period and supporting the horse's metabolism.
Pferdegold® supplementary feed!
Pferdegold is a small family business from Bavaria with a big dream: to produce the best horse feed. We see ourselves as a family of equestrians who want to provide your horse with the ideal nutrition. 100% natural and perfectly tailored to your horse's needs.
Try it now!Which nutrients does your horse absolutely need?
A balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of horses, especially when it comes to skin and coat care. Certain nutrients play a key role in maintaining a healthy coat and overall coat quality. Here are some important nutrients and their importance for a horse's coat:
✔ Proteins: Important for the growth and regeneration of fur and skin.
Proteins are the building blocks for the formation of keratin, the main component of hair.
✔ Omega-3 fatty acids: Can promote skin health and are said to ensure a shiny coat.
They potentially play a role in reducing inflammation and supporting skin elasticity.
✔ Zinc: An essential mineral that is important for skin regeneration and wound healing.
Zinc can help strengthen the immune system and is also said to promote healthy coat growth.
✔ Selenium: An important antioxidant that protects cells from damage and helps maintain skin health.
✔ Vitamins A, E and B complex: Vitamin A is crucial for cell renewal, vitamin E protects the skin from oxidative stress and B vitamins are important for metabolism and the health of skin and hair.
How do you support the liver and metabolism of horses?
The liver is a central organ for a horse's metabolism and plays a crucial role in the coat change. To support the liver, it is important to ensure a balanced diet with sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals. Natural liver support supplements such as milk thistle or artichoke extract can also be helpful.
These are said to promote liver function and even support the body in detoxification. Regular exercise and a customized feed composition that meets the horse's individual needs can also be crucial.
Oil in coat metabolism: What is suitable for horses?
Oils play an important role in the coat metabolism of horses as they provide essential fatty acids necessary for healthy coat growth.
Oils high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as linseed oil, fish oil, or hemp oil , are particularly suitable for horses. These oils can help keep the coat shiny and the skin supple. Some oils are also said to reduce inflammation and promote overall skin health.
When selecting oils, it's important to pay attention to quality and freshness , as rancid oils can do more harm than good. A moderate addition to feed can be a valuable supplement for coat care and the metabolism of horses.
How to optimize horse training
Training horses during the shedding period requires special attention and adjustment to ensure the animal's well-being and maintain performance. Here are some important aspects to consider:
-
Watch your horse closely
Watch for signs of fatigue or stress. During the shedding period, your horse may become fatigued more quickly or show a lower tolerance for intense exercise.
-
Adjust the intensity
Reduce the training intensity if necessary. Keep in mind that the coat change places additional strain on the body and prevents the horse from reaching its full potential.
-
Focus on health
Make sure the horse is in good health before training. A weak or sick horse should not be trained, especially during the shedding period.
-
Consider nutrition
A balanced diet is crucial to provide the horse with the energy and nutrients needed for training.
-
Regular breaks
Give your horse enough rest between training sessions. Adequate recovery time is especially important to avoid overexertion and stress.
-
Light movement
Light forms of exercise such as walks or gentle lunging can be helpful to stimulate the circulation and keep the muscles relaxed without overtaxing the horse.
-
Flexibility in the training plan
Be prepared to adapt your training plan flexibly based on your horse's condition and form on the day.
-
Professional advice
If you have any uncertainties or problems, advice from a professional trainer or veterinarian can be helpful.
Overall, it is important to structure training carefully during the coat change, to take the horse's individual needs into account and to prioritize its well-being.
Conclusion
You have certainly noticed that the coat change is a complex process that requires a comprehensive consideration of the horse's health.
From nutrition to care to training – every aspect contributes to your horse's ability to successfully and healthily manage the coat change.
Individually tailored support, whether through appropriate feeding, careful grooming or well-thought-out training, is essential.
Through a holistic approach that takes into account both physical and nutritional needs, you as a horse owner can give your faithful companion an optimal start into the new season.
FAQ
How long does a coat change take?
The duration of a horse's coat change can vary. It depends on various factors such as breed, housing conditions, weather, and the horse's age. Generally, the coat change lasts from a few weeks to a few months.
The onset is triggered by the change in daylight duration, with the transition from winter to summer coat occurring approximately from January to March and the transition from summer to winter coat occurring from September to November. Weather-related influences such as a cold snap can slow the process.
Do older horses often have problems with their coats?
Yes, older horses are more likely to experience problems with shedding. Their metabolism often doesn't function as efficiently as younger horses, which can slow down the shedding process.
They often take longer to shed their winter coats and can be more prone to health problems during the shedding period. Supportive feeding and appropriate care are therefore especially important to support older horses during the shedding period.
IMPORTANT:
Pferdegold is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment . The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and is intended to help improve your horse's well-being.
Pferdegold products do not treat or cure diseases , but rather support your horse in correcting nutritional deficiencies through targeted nutrient intake. However, they are not a substitute for professional advice from a veterinarian or specialist.
If your horse has any health problems, we strongly recommend consulting a veterinarian . Pferdegold assumes no liability for decisions made based on the information provided here.
Learn more about horse health and read our next guides!
- Metabolic diseases in horses: causes and tips
- Zinc for horses » The importance for horse health
- Vitamin B for horses : All about importance, requirements & deficiencies
- Amino acids for horses: Important role in muscle building
- Vitamin E in horses » Everything you should know!
- Selenium in horses » The important role of the mineral
