Horses communicate throughout the day using subtle signals. These are often much more subtle than we humans initially realise. Nevertheless, a horse always indicates when it is feeling unwell, either physically or mentally \u2014 both through its behaviour and its body language.<\/p>\n
As a homeowner, you can spot a great many things by taking a good look at\u00a0watch<\/strong>,\u00a0feel<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0listen<\/strong>. In this blog, you can read about the signs horses show when they\u2019re not feeling their best, especially when they\u00a0be sensitive to skin, socks or fur<\/strong>.<\/p>\n When a horse isn\u2019t feeling quite right, you can often tell from its behaviour:<\/p>\n More reserved or less cheerful<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Unrest in the herd<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Scratching, rubbing or stamping<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Less motivation to exercise<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Reacting differently to touch<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n This does not necessarily indicate a medical condition, but it\u00a0It does mean, though, that something in the body is calling for attention<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014 for example, due to sensitivity in the legs, skin or coat.<\/p>\n Horses communicate mainly through non-verbal means. Please note:<\/p>\n Ears pulled back slightly when being groomed or touched <\/p>\n A horse can convey a great deal through its skin:<\/p>\n Dull coat<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Excessive flaking<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Rubbing against posts or walls<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Red, sensitive patches<\/p>\n<\/li>\n More itchy than usual<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Many horses have sensitive areas of skin in autumn, winter and during wet spells \u2014 particularly on their legs. At such times, gentle and consistent care of their socks, skin and coat can be particularly important.<\/p>\n (Note:\u00a0We do not make any medical claims here.<\/strong>\u00a0(We will only mention observations and care.)<\/p>\n Horses have an unerring sense of how you\u2019re feeling. When you\u2019re restless or uncertain, your horse may react by becoming tense or withdrawing.<\/p>\n When you are calm and clear, you\u2019ll see that horses:<\/p>\n Relax more quickly <\/p>\n Small changes quickly become apparent if you take a moment to look closely every day.<\/p>\n Gentle care helps many horses that are sensitive to wet weather or fluctuating temperatures.<\/p>\n In autumn, winter and during wet spells, horses are more likely to show signs of discomfort in their legs and on their skin.<\/p>\n Herbs can help the body maintain its balance, particularly during moulting, seasonal changes or times of sensitivity \u2014 without making any medical claims.<\/p>\n Horses with sensitive legs, hooves or skin are more likely to show signs of discomfort. Pay particular attention when you:<\/p>\n See more pitting or scuffing <\/p>\n Horses are constantly communicating \u2014 just without words. By paying close attention to their behaviour, skin, energy and body language, you can quickly tell when your horse isn\u2019t feeling quite right.<\/p>\n And the best thing is: <\/p>\n <\/p>\n ","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<\/h3>\n
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1. Changes in behaviour: the first sign<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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2. Body language that speaks volumes<\/h3>\n
\nTight nostrils or jaw muscles
\nA tail that swishes more often
\nLifting or pulling legs away during care
\nTrembling or tensing of muscles
\nIn horses prone to mud fever, mites or rasp-sensitive legs, you may sometimes notice that being touched becomes more uncomfortable for them. This is a sign that you should be extra gentle when grooming them and keep a close eye on them.<\/p>\n3. Changes to the skin and coat<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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4. Your horse trusts your energy<\/h3>\n
\nLet them know earlier what they like
\nShow more confidence
\nSo your horse not only shows how it is feeling, but also reacts to how you are feeling.<\/p>\nThe most important thing is:<\/h3>\n
\u2714\ufe0f Observe daily<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\u2714\ufe0f Keep a close eye on the skin<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\u2714\ufe0f Bear in mind the time of year<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\u2714\ufe0f\u00a0Provide support from within when necessary<\/em><\/h3>\n
6. When should you be particularly careful?<\/h3>\n
\nIf you notice scabs, wet patches or flaking
\nNoticing a change whilst cleaning
\nFeeling uneasy or uncomfortable when moving
\nThe sooner you spot subtle signs, the better you can support your horse through gentle care.<\/p>\nConclusion<\/h3>\n
\nA horse often feels understood very quickly when you take the time to listen.<\/p>\n