How to Prevent Sunburn in Horses: Essential Tips for Summer
As the warmer months approach, protecting your horse from sunburn becomes vital, especially if they have pale or pink skin on their face or body. Sunburn in horses can cause painful discomfort and, over time, increase the risk of skin cancer. This guide helps you understand prevention methods to keep your horse safe and comfortable during sunny days.
Breeds More Susceptible to Sunburn
Some breeds are particularly prone to sunburn due to their lighter skin pigmentation. Horses with pink or white areas on their body and face are at greater risk. Breeds commonly affected include:
Protecting these breeds carefully, particularly the delicate skin around the eyes and muzzle, is important to reduce sun damage.
Conditional Sensitivities: Mares and Medication
Mares in foal may develop increased sensitivity due to hormonal changes. Keeping them in shaded areas during peak sun hours reduces risk of burning.
Certain medications, such as Tetracycline, can cause photosensitivity, making horses more vulnerable to sunburn. If your horse is on such medication, avoid turnout during the hottest parts of the day and consult your vet for tailored advice.
Monitoring and Recognising Early Signs of Sunburn
Early signs mirror those seen in humans: skin that appears red, sore, and inflamed. Without early intervention, affected areas can become chapped, cracked, or blistered, which is painful and prone to infection. Prompt preventative care and treatment make recovery easier and prevent complications.
Preventing Sunburn in Horses: Practical Steps
1. Provide Shade and Adjust Turnout Times
Limit sun exposure during peak UV hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 3-4 p.m.). Turn your horse out early in the morning and late in the evening when sunlight is less intense. Ensure turnout areas have natural or artificial shade like trees, run-in sheds, or UV sunshades.
2. Use Protective Gear
Fly masks designed to cover the entire face, including the muzzle and eyes, can effectively block UV rays. These also protect against fly irritation. Keep fly masks clean by washing daily and ensuring they are completely dry before reuse to prevent bacterial build-up.
Lightweight fly sheets with UV protection help shield the horse’s body from burning and coat bleaching. For white or pink legs, applying protective leggings or tube socks secured safely may aid in preventing sun damage.
3. Apply Sunscreen Specifically for Horses
Wherever your horse’s skin is exposed, especially on the muzzle and around the eyes, apply a high SPF sunscreen. Commercially available horse sunscreens are ideal but can be costly. Alternatively, human sunscreen containing zinc oxide and crafted for sensitive skin can be used if vet-approved.
Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after your horse has been grazing or drinking water, as it may wear off.
4. Consider Stabling During Midday
Keeping your horse stabled during the hottest parts of the day protects them from direct sunlight and helps maintain a pristine coat for showing purposes. Balance this with turnout in cooler times to ensure they get adequate exercise and grazing opportunities.
Additional Tips for Responsible Care
- Avoid using sun protection products that are toxic or unsuitable for equines; always confirm ingredients with your vet.
- Watch your horse closely for any signs of discomfort or skin changes during the summer months.
- Maintain regular grooming to check for skin issues and to keep the coat healthy and shiny.
Taking a thoughtful, multi-pronged approach to sun protection will ensure your horse enjoys the summer safely and comfortably. Prevention is always more effective than treating painful sunburn injuries.
