Last Updated on February 23, 2022 by Allison Price
Here are some ways to reduce flaky skin and make sure it isn’t a sign of a health problem.
It is normal for a horse to be able to shed a layer of hair and dust from his coat. But what does it mean if there are large, waxy patches of skin? It’s likely that it’s a benign case of primary seborrhea (also known as dandruff).Regular, vigorous grooming can increase circulation and natural production to help keep dandruff at bay.
Horse dandruff can be oily or dry. Small, dry flakes may form at the base and tail of the horse’s mane or tail. Large, waxy crusts are usually found on the elbows and hocks of horses with oily seborrhea. Horses who are susceptible to dandruff can develop it for their entire lives. Arabians and Thoroughbreds are more likely to be affected than the Arabians and Thoroughbreds.
Primary seborrhea can only be treated as an aesthetic problem. Regular, vigorous grooming is enough to increase circulation and natural oil production. Antidandruff shampoos for horses can dissolve scales and flakes. Oily scales can be loosened by gentle soapy scrubs with a soft-fingered curry. Don’t wash too much. Dandruff can get worse if you overwash your skin. A variety of dietary supplements can help improve skin health. You should look for those that contain vegetable oils, omega-3 fat acids, and biotin.
