Why does a horse's immunity decrease during shedding?

When animals shed or are molting, it significantly affects their immune system. This also applies to horses. Good nutrition is especially important during this time because your horse needs a lot of energy, vitamins, and minerals to shed its coat properly. How can you prevent a dip in immunity during shedding?

Algae

Skin

Minerals

Silicon

Salmon oil

21 October '24 • 1 min reading time

The physical effort required to shed an old coat and grow a new one demands a lot of energy and nutrients. As a result, the horse's body can pay less attention to fighting off diseases. During this period, the skin may become more sensitive, and small cracks and irritations can allow bacteria and parasites to enter. Moreover, producing a new coat requires extra energy, leaving less energy available for the immune system.

Good Nutrition is Essential

Good nutrition is therefore crucial during the shedding period: extra vitamins and minerals can help support the horse's immunity. Adequate rest and a stress-free environment also contribute to a stronger immune system. This way, you can help your horse get through the molting period without any problems.

A Beautiful New Coat

To develop a beautiful, healthy new coat, your horse needs sufficient silicon and omega-3 fatty acids, among other things. The mineral silicon is important for the skin, hooves, cartilage, tendons, and bones. Therefore, always ensure your horse receives enough of this mineral. A supplement of well-absorbed hydrolyzed silicon is the most suitable option for this. Horses with a silicon deficiency often lick sand in a (futile) attempt to get more silicon. It is no coincidence that most problems with sand colic occur in the fall when horses are growing their winter coats!

Supporting Immunity and More Energy

Omega-3 fatty acids are also very important for healthy skin and coat. Research has shown that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids helps reduce inflammatory reactions in horses (beneficial for skin spots) and also activates the immune system. This boosts immunity. Additionally, blood circulation improves, and your horse has more energy. In short: give your horse salmon oil or DHA algae when it is shedding!

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In the cold, wet, and dark days of winter, many horses experience a dip in their immune system. The shedding of their winter coat, when the days start getting longer, can also have a negative impact on their immune system. Is there a way to prevent such a resistance dip? We provide you with four tips

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In the cold, wet, and dark days of winter, many horses experience a dip in their immune system. The shedding of their winter coat, when the days start getting longer, can also have a negative impact on their immune system. Is there a way to prevent such a resistance dip? We provide you with four tips. Tip 1 - Ensure sufficient exercise even in winter Horses are animals that require movement. However, during winter, it can be less appealing - and sometimes even impossible - to go out with your horse. If you only have access to an outdoor arena, or have to work during the day, this may mean that your horse gets less exercise in winter. Make sure your horse has as much free movement as possible daily, even if you don't find it appealing to be outside. Generally, horses tolerate cold weather much...