Keeping your horse happy and healthy: A guide to basic grooming

Proper horse grooming isn’t just about making your horse look good – it’s one of the best ways to keep them healthy. Plus, it’s the perfect time to slow down and really bond with your horse. When you groom daily, you’re much more likely to spot small injuries, skin irritations, or early warning signs of health issues that you might otherwise miss.

A quick pro tip: Always groom before you hop in the saddle. Even a tiny bit of grit trapped under the gear can cause painful rubbing and sores for your horse. Before you start, secure your horse to a post and work your way across their body in a consistent direction.

Why grooming is a game-changer for skin and coat health

• Preventing sores: Clearing away dirt, sweat, and grit under the saddle and bridle stops painful rubbing and hair loss.
• Health checks: As you brush, feel for any new bumps, lumps, or scabs. These can be early signs of infections, allergies, or parasites.
  Natural shine: Using tools like curry combs and body brushes stimulates blood flow and helps spread natural oils for that beautiful, glossy coat.
• Beating bacteria: Regular cleaning removes the moisture and debris that lead to common issues like rain scald, mud fever, and fungal infections.

How often should you groom your horse?

• Ideally, every day: Especially if your horse is working hard or spending time in the mud. Daily grooming keeps the coat clean, boosts circulation, and lets you catch health issues early.
• Three to four times a week: This is usually fine for horses that aren’t ridden often or live in very clean environments. Just adapt the schedule to your horse’s specific lifestyle.
• Watch the seasons: During spring and autumn, your horse will shed more. You’ll want to groom more often during these times to help clear away loose hair and keep their skin healthy.
• Post-workout care: Give them some extra attention after a ride or wet weather to stop bacteria from building up.

*Vet Explains Pets

Your simple 30-minute grooming guide

If you stay on top of it, grooming only takes about 30 minutes. Here’s a simple step-by-step:

1. Prep your kit: Grab your brushes and keep them close by, but safely out of the way so nobody trips.
2. Secure your horse: Use a cross-tie or a quick-release knot.
3. Hooves first: Use a hoof pick to clear out debris. Look out for loose shoes or anything that seems “off.”
4. The deep clean: Grab a stiff body brush. Start behind the ears and work through the whole coat to loosen dirt. Use a curry comb every few strokes to clean the hair out of your brush.
5. The finish: Switch to a soft brush to sweep away the remaining dust and fine particles.
6. The “feel” test: Run your hands over their body to check for any hidden cuts or swellings.
7. Mane and tail: Carefully detangle using a comb or your fingers.
8. Final polish: Use a sponge or soft cloth for that extra bit of shine.

When to call the vet

If you notice anything unusual – like stubborn dandruff, bald patches, or sores that won’t heal – it’s best to get in touch with your vet. Think of grooming as your first line of defence, but remember that professional care is key for long-term health.

*The content on this page is provided for educational and general informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace independent professional veterinary advice. Any references to products, services, or external resources do not constitute endorsement. Users should seek professional veterinary assistance for any concerns relating to the health or welfare of their horse.