Dandruff in horses in winter: causes and treatment

Does your horse have white flakes in its coat, dry skin, or does it regularly rub itself? Flakes can be particularly noticeable in horses during autumn and winter. The winter coat becomes thicker, horses are more often covered with a rug, and moisture and dirt can remain trapped between the hairs for longer.

But why does a horse have flaky skin? And what is the best way to care for a horse’s dry or flaky skin?

At Paardenkriebels.nl, we take a holistic approach to skincare, focusing on both external care and nutrition.

1. Why does my horse have dandruff in winter?

A horse’s skin is constantly renewing itself. As part of this process, small skin cells are shed. This is a normal process.

Sometimes these flakes are more noticeable, for example during the colder months.

Possible factors include:

• Dry horse skin: the skin feels dry to the touch and small white flakes are visible.
• A thick winter coat: dead skin cells and dirt are more likely to get trapped between the hairs.
• Use of blankets: heat, friction and moisture can affect skin comfort.
• Changes to your skincare routine: brushing more often, washing more often or using different skincare products.
• Sensitive horse skin: some horses are more sensitive to changes in their environment.
• Not every flake of skin means that the skin needs extra care. You should therefore always assess the condition of the skin and your horse’s behaviour.

2. White flakes on horses: what should you look out for?

Can you see any white flakes near the mane, under the belly, on the back or amongst the hair on the legs?

You should then check the skin under the coat regularly.

For example, please note:

• White or dry flakes amongst the hair.
• Dry or sensitive skin.
• Regularly scraping against fences or walls.
• Tapping or fidgeting with the legs.
• Changes to the coat or skin.
• Flaking can have various causes. If your pet is constantly scratching, has scabs, bald patches or obvious changes to their skin, it is advisable to consult a vet.

3. Dry skin in horses during winter: care tips

A dry or flaky horse’s coat requires a careful grooming routine.

1. Check the skin beneath the winter coat

Gently lift the hair and examine the skin. Pay particular attention to areas covered by a blanket or where your horse regularly rubs itself.

2. Brush gently

Use a clean, soft brush to remove loose dirt and hair. Avoid brushing too hard on sensitive areas.

3. Wash only when necessary

Washing too often can affect the skin’s natural oil barrier. Use a mild shampoo suitable for horses and rinse it out thoroughly.

4. Keep an eye on the horse’s rug

Check regularly that the blanket fits properly, does not chafe and that the skin underneath remains dry.

5. Choose suitable care products

Not every horse’s skin has the same care requirements. Choose products suited to the condition of the skin and always follow the instructions for use.

4. Caring for sensitive horse skin from the outside

At Paardenkriebels.nl, you’ll find a range of products for the daily external care of horses.

For example:

• Green-XL Horse Shampoo: for gentle cleansing of the horse’s skin and coat.
• Neem oil: for the external care of horses’ sensitive skin.
• Neem ointment: for the local treatment of dry and sensitive areas of skin.

A good grooming routine starts by assessing what your horse needs.

Use products in accordance with the instructions on the packaging and do not simply mix and match different skincare products.

5. Care from the inside out: nutrition and herbs for horses

As well as external care, a balanced diet plays an important role in the day-to-day care of your horse.

A sufficient supply of roughage, fresh drinking water and an appropriate intake of nutrients form the basis.

At Paardenkriebels.nl, you’ll also find individual herbs and carefully blended herb mixes to supplement your daily diet.

Herbal remedies are not a substitute for a balanced diet or necessary veterinary care.

Use herbs in accordance with the product information. We do not recommend the use of herbs for pregnant or lactating mares, foals and yearlings.

Applying cream is only half the job — a blend of herbs completes the skincare routine.

6. Dandruff in horses: when should you pay extra attention?

A few loose flakes of skin are not necessarily a cause for concern.

But have you noticed that your horse is constantly rubbing itself, has a lot of dandruff or is showing signs of skin changes? If so, it’s important to look beyond just coat care.

A vet can help assess what the problem is.

Appropriate daily care also remains important for your horse’s comfort.

• Frequently asked questions about dandruff in horses
• Why does my horse have white flakes in its coat?
• White flakes are loose skin cells. They may be particularly noticeable on dry skin or in a thick winter coat. If a lot of flakes appear or if your horse is also rubbing itself, it is advisable to check the skin thoroughly.

Can a horse develop more dandruff because of its winter coat?
A thick winter coat can cause loose skin cells and dirt to remain trapped between the hairs for longer. As a result, dandruff may be more noticeable.

What can I do if my horse’s skin is dry and flaky?
Check the skin regularly, brush gently, do not wash more often than necessary, and use care products suitable for a horse’s skin. If any changes persist, it is advisable to seek advice from a vet.

Which shampoo is suitable for a horse with dandruff?
Choose a mild horse shampoo that suits the skin’s care needs. At Paardenkriebels.nl, you’ll find products such as Green-XL Horse Shampoo for cleaning the skin and coat.

Why does my horse keep rubbing itself when there aren’t many insects around?
Scratching does not necessarily have to be related solely to insects. Other factors may also play a part. You should therefore check your pet’s skin and coat and have persistent scratching assessed by a vet.

💚 Give your horse’s skin the care it deserves
Does your horse have sensitive skin, a dry winter coat or regularly suffer from itchiness?

At Paardenkriebels.nl, you’ll find care products, herbal blends and complete care sets for a range of care needs.

👉 Browse the range at Paardenkriebels.nl

Not sure which care routine is best for your horse?

Please feel free to send me a WhatsApp message for personalised advice. I’d be happy to help you sort things out!

Kind regards,

Monique
Paardenkriebels.nl 🐴💚