Your horse has stopped rubbing itself, but its skin is still sensitive. Why is that?

Summer is over, the insects are becoming less active and your horse finally seems to be suffering less from itching. But what if you still notice flaky patches, dry spots or sensitive skin?

Many horse owners will recognise this. During the summer, their horse’s skin requires extra attention. As soon as autumn arrives and the horse stops rubbing itself, that period seems to be over. However, the skin may still need extra care even after the summer.

At Paardenkriebels.nl, I therefore don’t just focus on the summer months, but on skincare throughout the year.

Why does your horse continue to have sensitive skin after the summer?

A horse’s skin has to put up with a lot during the summer. Think of insects, heat, sweat and regularly rubbing against trees, posts or fences.

If your horse stops rubbing, this does not automatically mean that its skin is immediately back in optimal condition.

You might recognise one of these situations:

• Your horse hardly rubs itself at all anymore, but there are still flakes of dandruff in its mane.
• The base of the tail looks dry or delicate.
• In places where the fur has been sanded down before, it is still thin.
• You notice small dry patches whilst brushing your teeth.
• The skin feels rough or is sensitive to touch.

It is particularly important at this time of year to keep a close eye on your skin.

Flakes in the mane or near the tail: what does that mean?

Flaking skin in horses can have various causes. Sometimes dry skin, weather conditions or friction play a part. Other skin conditions can also cause flaking.

Particularly in the case of horses that are prone to itching or summer eczema during the summer, the mane and base of the tail deserve extra attention.

My tip: Don’t just look at the coat; whilst grooming, try parting the hair. This will allow you to assess the skin more effectively.

Are flakes keep reappearing, are scabs forming, or is the skin becoming increasingly sensitive? If so, have a vet assess what the problem is.

Why does a horse’s coat require different care in autumn?

• The transition from summer to autumn brings with it a number of changes.
• The temperature is falling, the humidity is rising, and many horses are starting to grow their winter coats.
• In addition, rain, mud, damp blankets and fluctuating temperatures can affect the condition of the skin.
• Moreover, changes to the skin are less easily visible beneath a thicker winter coat.
• That’s why autumn is a good time to take another look at your horse’s grooming routine.

What can you do if your horse has dry or sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin doesn’t always need more products; what it needs most is the right skincare.

Start by checking your horse regularly. Look out for dry patches, flaking, changes in the coat and areas where your horse has previously rubbed itself.

When washing, use a gentle shampoo which is suitable for horses with sensitive skin. Do not wash more often than necessary and rinse out grooming products thoroughly.

For your daily skincare routine, you can choose a nourishing skin oil or skin gel, depending on your skin condition and the instructions for use.

A clean, dry living environment and well-fitting blankets are also important.

Why do I look at skincare from the inside out and from the outside in at Paardenkriebels?

At Paardenkriebels.nl, I believe in a skincare routine that looks beyond just the surface.

From the outside, it’s all about caring for, protecting and keeping your horse’s skin supple with products suited to your horse’s sensitivity.

When taken internally, a carefully formulated herbal blend can, where appropriate, provide additional support as part of your daily care routine.

At Paardenkriebels.nl, you’ll also find care packages where external care and additional support from within come together

Not every horse is suited to herbal remedies. Extra care is needed with pregnant or lactating mares, young horses and horses with certain health problems.

Frequently asked questions about sensitive horse skin after the summer

Why has my horse stopped rubbing itself, but still has flaky patches?

Less scratching does not automatically mean that the skin no longer needs attention. Flaking can be caused by dryness, friction or other skin problems, amongst other things. Keep checking the skin and, if any changes persist, seek advice from a vet.

Can a horse still suffer from summer eczema in October?

Yes. Insect activity depends partly on the weather and the temperature. On mild autumn days, certain insects may still be active. Horses that are prone to summer eczema may therefore still show signs of skin problems in October.

What sort of care is suitable for a horse with dry skin?

That depends on the condition of the skin. A mild shampoo, a suitable skin oil or a nourishing gel can form part of your skincare routine. Pay attention to the ingredients, the instructions for use and how your skin reacts.

Should I continue to look after my horse in the autumn if it’s no longer rubbing itself?

Yes. Regular skin checks and appropriate skincare remain important, even when the flaking subsides. This way, you can spot any changes in the condition of your skin in good time.

Paardenkriebels understands horses prone to itching

A horse that rubs less may still have sensitive skin. That’s why you shouldn’t stop looking after its skin just because summer is over.

At Paardenkriebels.nl, you’ll find carefully selected grooming products for horses with sensitive skin, dry patches, flaky skin and seasonal itchiness.

From gentle skincare to additional support from within: I’d be happy to help you find the products that best suit your horse’s care needs.

Do you recognise this in your horse?

View the care products at www.paardenkriebels.nl Or feel free to send me a WhatsApp message. Tell me what you’ve noticed about your horse, and I’ll help you work through it personally.

Paardenkriebels.nl focuses on horses with sensitive skin, both internally and externally.