Essential Winter Grooming Tips for Horses

When winter arrives, horse owners often face several challenges. From excessive blanketing and frozen water buckets to snowballs packed into hoofs after a trail ride, winter can test your patience. Personally, the biggest struggle is keeping your horse clean when baths are impractical, coats are long, and blankets seem to collect dirt instantly.

If you’re braving the cold winter months, keeping your horse’s coat clean and healthy is essential. Whether you're managing a horse farm in frigid climates or just dealing with a particularly harsh winter, these grooming tips will help you maintain your horse’s cleanliness without the need for frequent baths.

1. Master the Art of Curry Combing

The foundation of winter grooming starts with proper currying. Use a curry comb with determination, as this is key to removing dirt and oils from your horse’s coat. Curry combing is not just about removing surface dirt; it helps in distributing natural oils throughout the coat, promoting a healthier skin and coat.

For best results, opt for an old-school metal curry comb. It effectively pulls up more dirt compared to rubber curry combs and penetrates through the coat with ease. However, remember to avoid using metal curry combs on sensitive areas like the face and legs. Instead, use a rubber curry mitt for these regions.

Tip: Start with a light touch if your horse is sensitive to metal curries. Gradually apply more pressure as your horse becomes accustomed to the sensation, revealing a surprising amount of dirt.

2. Enhance Cleanliness with Apple Cider Vinegar

Incorporating Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) into your grooming routine can be highly beneficial. Fill a spray bottle with ACV—diluting it with water if the smell is too strong—and apply it to your horse's coat once or twice a week. After currying, spray the ACV on the coat and curry it in thoroughly. This will help strip excess oils, resulting in a softer, cleaner coat.

3. Don’t Forget the Body Brushes

Body brushes are essential for a well-groomed horse. Use long flick brushes to quickly remove dust and debris from the coat. After using a flick brush, spend additional time with a good body brush to lay the hair back down. This will also help in spreading the natural oils through the coat, enhancing your horse’s shine and overall coat health.

4. Maintain Nutritional Balance with Excel Supplements

Proper grooming is only part of the equation. To ensure your horse's coat remains healthy throughout the winter, balanced nutrition is crucial. ExcelEQ ProElite™ from Excel Supplements provides essential nutrients that support your horse's coat health and overall well-being during the colder months.

By following these winter grooming tips and maintaining a balanced diet with Excel Supplements, you can keep your horse looking and feeling its best all season long.