askHELTIE HELTIEhorse® How do you care for your horse’s feathers?

How do you care for your horse’s feathers?

Feathers on a horse can look beautiful and are very characteristic for many breeds. However, to prevent skin problems, mites, or infections, they do require proper care. What is the best way to do this?

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5 January '26 • 1 min reading time

It is always advisable to regularly check the lower legs of a horse with feathers thoroughly. Brush and comb the hair well and inspect the skin in the pastern area and underneath the feathers. Problems in these areas are easily overlooked.

Washing and greasing?

You can wash the feathers occasionally with a mild horse shampoo, but do not do this too often. Excessive washing with soap can make the skin under the feathers more sensitive and removes the natural protective oils. It is especially important that the feathers remain free of parasites and as dry as possible. In muddy or snowy conditions, keep an old towel handy to dry the legs, and if necessary apply a zinc ointment or petroleum jelly to the pastern area to help repel moisture.

Controlling parasites

During the winter months, mites can often become a problem, especially in horses that stand on deep straw bedding and are prone to them. Always treat mites thoroughly and repeatedly, preferably in a natural way, but if necessary following the advice of a veterinarian. The mite life cycle requires multiple treatments, as the eggs usually survive a single treatment. Brushes and other grooming equipment should also be treated with a mite-repellent product.

Clipping?

Feathers protect your horse against cold and mud, but if your horse suffers from significant or persistent skin problems, it may be advisable to (partially) clip the feathers.

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