Taking care of a horse is much more than a daily routine—it’s a deep commitment to its physical and emotional well-being. Whether you’re an owner, rider, or caretaker, knowing the right horse care practices is essential to ensure your animal’s health, performance, and longevity. From grooming to nutrition, from veterinary prevention to emotional bonding, every action matters. Let’s explore the fundamentals of equine care, where consistency, attention, and gentleness are key.
Horse care starts with grooming, a valuable moment not only to clean the animal but to detect the first signs of health issues (wounds, heat, pain, parasites…). Using a curry comb, a stiff brush, and a soft brush removes dirt, stimulates blood circulation, and strengthens the horse–human bond.
Hoof care is just as essential. Cleaned daily with a hoof pick, hooves should be checked to prevent abscesses, laminitis, thrush, or abnormal growth. A regular trim every 6 to 8 weeks, or proper shoeing, completes this routine.
The horse also needs a clean living environment, whether in a stall or pasture. A dry shelter, clean bedding, proper ventilation, and frequent cleaning help avoid respiratory infections, skin diseases, and joint problems caused by damp conditions.
A balanced diet is the foundation of a healthy horse. The primary food source should be quality forage (hay, grass), which makes up about 70% of the horse’s daily ration. Dividing the feed into several small meals throughout the day mimics natural grazing and helps avoid colic.
Depending on age, activity level, and physical condition (growth, pregnancy, recovery), the diet may include grains, pelleted feeds, and mineral and vitamin supplements (magnesium, zinc, selenium, vitamins A-D-E).
Access to a salt lick and clean, fresh water at all times is essential. Whether in summer or winter, dehydration can cause serious issues like performance loss, colic, and metabolic disorders.
A regular veterinary check-up is an integral part of horse care. This includes a tailored vaccination schedule (equine influenza, tetanus, equine herpesvirus…), seasonal deworming, and annual dental care.
Oral health is often underestimated but directly impacts chewing, digestion, and even behavior. Uneven tooth wear can cause mouth injuries, weight loss, and irritability.
Maintaining the back, tendons, and joints requires careful observation: lameness, stiffness, performance drop, or abnormal sweating may indicate issues. Complementary care (osteopathy, physical therapy, corrective farriery) may be needed.
Finally, a horse’s emotional well-being is vital. Horses need mental stimulation, social contact, and a stable environment. A stressed or isolated horse can quickly develop behavioral problems like cribbing, aggression, or depression.
What is a horse’s daily care routine?
It includes grooming, hoof cleaning, health check (wounds, appetite, behavior), feeding and watering, and stable or paddock maintenance.
How often should a horse be dewormed?
Usually 4 times a year, but this depends on the environment and lifestyle. A fecal egg count can help tailor the treatment.
When should the farrier visit?
Every 6 to 8 weeks, even for barefoot horses. Regular trimming prevents postural imbalances, pain, and lameness.
What are the signs of a sick horse?
Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, heavy sweating, rapid breathing, lameness, or behavioral changes are warning signs—contact a vet immediately.
How can horse stress be prevented?
Through a consistent routine, enriched environment, regular social interaction with other horses, and gentle handling. Trust and calm training also support emotional stability.
Can a horse live exclusively in a stall?
Not ideally. Horses need daily turnout, movement, and natural light for physical and mental health.
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