Horses' Fall Care: Coat, Hooves and Parasite Control

When coat shedding starts

Already in mid-September we notice our horses beginning to grow both deeper and thicker coats. This is a sign that their bodies are responding to the decreasing day length – nature's signal that winter is approaching. This is completely normal and wonderful: a thicker coat will protect them when temperatures drop.

Daily care becomes more important

With autumn comes more mud, wet weather and potentially more dirt in the coat. Thorough brushing is not just cosmetics – it's health prevention.

• Brush daily to remove dead hair and prevent skin problems
• Check for skin infections or irritation during coat shedding
• Wash hooves at least 3 times per week; damp conditions cause ringworm and hoof rot

Parasites and September

Moisture and moderate temperatures in September are paradise for parasites. We keep an eye on:

• Lice – look for bite marks and bare patches
• Fungal infection – classic autumn problem when it's wet
• Internal parasites – even more important when horses are out grazing more

Hoof maintenance

Horses' hooves need more attention during damp autumn months. We trim every 6-8 weeks and check daily for signs of thrush or infection. Mud holds moisture against the hoof – not good.

A healthy animal starts with good routines. September is the time to establish them before winter.