The shiny coat is a sign that the horse is healthy and happy. The dull coat can be the result of some nutritional deficiency, worms and parasites and lack of regular brushing. Whether for a show or just to keep his coat healthy and beautiful every day, just give the animal the care and attention it needs.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Washing and Brushing the Horse
Step 1. Use clean instruments
Before giving the horse a bath, soak all brushes (including the mane brushes, tail brushes, and combs) in warm water with a small amount of dishwashing detergent. Rinse them well and let them dry in the sun.
Step 2. Brush the horse regularly
The salt from sweat can dull the color of the coat and irritate the animal's skin if it is not brushed properly. Brushing removes dirt from the skin and dead hair, in addition to distributing oil evenly.
Use manual force. Nothing replaces hard work. When you treat your horse consistently, with regular care, results show
Step 3. Avoid bathing too much
Frequent baths with soap can leave the hair dry and opaque, in addition to removing the natural oil from the coat. There is no "rule" for how often you shower, but be aware that you just use water to remove sweat and dirt. Consider giving a bath just before a show or if the horse is covered in mud.
Monitoring dandruff is a way to know when is the right time to take another bath. Dandruff can be an indication that you are bathing the horse too often or too infrequently. With a low frequency, the horse usually has dandruff. The excess can remove the natural oiliness of the hair and lead to dandruff
Step 4. Rinse coat thoroughly
At bath time, rinse the animal as many times as necessary for the soap to come out completely, as the residue can leave the hair lifeless. Any residue can affect the animal's skin or interfere with natural oil production.
Part 2 of 4: Solving Nutrition Problems
Step 1. Nourish the horse with a balanced diet
Good nutrition includes adequate protein and fatty acids, depending on the animal's activity level and health needs. Grazing horses also need proper nutrition. Ask the caretaker for professional nutrition advice.
Step 2. Add supplements to the horse's feed
Supplementing the diet can be a great way to add more nutrients to your pet's food if you do it as directed. Talk to your veterinarian about vitamin deficiency and create a supplement plan. Some common ingredients found in skin supplements are: vitamin A, B, biotin, methionine, lysine, zinc, fatty acids and vitamin E.
Step 3. Add oils to the horse's diet
The lifeless coat can be the result of a lack of fatty acids such as omega 3 and omega 6. Many people choose to add vegetable oils to the horse's feed. Use as directed.
Part 3 of 4: Assessing the Horse's Health
Step 1. Find out if the horse needs dewormer
The worms can make the hair look rough and lifeless, in addition to causing lethargy, distend the stomach and, in younger animals, slow down growth. Look out for any of these symptoms and talk to a veterinarian to get rid of the parasites.
- Looking for parasite eggs in the stool is the best way to detect worms and parasites. The veterinarian can help the owner develop an effective method to get rid of them as per the pet's needs.
- Pasture-bred horses tend to have fewer parasites than stable-bred animals because they are not in a confined condition. Maintain hygienic and clean conditions if your animals are raised in the stable.
Step 2. Assess secondary illnesses
The appearance of the horse's hair can change due to health problems that require veterinarian care.
- A fungal infection can contribute to shedding and matted hair. Some common symptoms of yeast infection include weight loss, cramps, diarrhea and runny nose.
- Gland problems can also cause the skin to dry out, resulting in dull, brittle hair. Discuss these issues with the veterinarian.
Step 3. Assess allergies
Allergies are unpleasant for the animal and can bring problems to the coat. Talk to the professional to treat the condition.
Part 4 of 4: Showing off the horse
Step 1. Apply silicone after showering
Silicone improves the appearance of the horse's hair. Use a spray to gently apply it all over the coat except the saddle area. By applying silicone on the legs and tail, it prevents dirt from sticking in the region. There are other products made to intensify the coat's shine.
Step 2. Use a fabric softener to remove the dust
This handkerchief removes any last minute dust in the face region. Gently pass it on the animal's face, being careful not to remove any hair from the place. Do this just before entering the viewing area.
Step 3. Apply baby powder or cornstarch to legs
Applying talcum powder to the legs helps make them stand out and can improve the overall appearance of the horse. Apply it on the day of the presentation.
Notices
- Use supplements as indicated and do not overdo those containing iodine or selenium, as these substances can be toxic in high dosages.
- Do not apply shine products near where the saddle and reins are located, as they can become slippery.
- Do not brand the animal with a hot iron. Do not use oil near the eyes and on the muzzle on sunny days.