Scratching? Rubbing? Itching?
There are many possible causes of itchy skin in horses, including various skin conditions, inflammations such as fungal infections, atopic skin, external parasites, unsuitable diets, allergies, and hypersensitivities.
Breed can also influence the cause of itching. Horses with heavy feathering and long pastern hair may suffer from chorioptic mites. In Finnhorses, Icelandic horses, and Shetland ponies, sweet itch may be an underlying cause. During summer, sweet itch and insects are among the most common triggers.
Itching and skin problems may also be linked to excessive dryness of the skin and/or deficiencies in fatty acids. Dryness may appear as flaking skin, poor coat quality, or excessive rubbing. Dry skin problems typically worsen in winter; the skin may feel tight or sensitive, and dandruff is often noticeable in the mane and tail. Blanketing can also contribute to skin dryness by increasing moisture loss, leading to itching and flaking.
Supporting dry and itchy skin
Skin health is influenced by many nutritional factors. The body must receive adequate vitamins, minerals, and skin-supporting fatty acids.
Vitamin A is needed for cell growth and skin maintenance. Good sources for horses include carrots; for dogs, liver and cod. Vitamin B and vitamin C also support skin health, but perhaps the most essential “skin vitamin” is vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from internal and external oxidative stress. Among minerals, zinc and biotin are particularly important for skin health.
The most important omega fatty acids for skin care are omega-6 and omega-3. Other beneficial fatty acids include omega-9 (from black cumin seed) and omega-7 (from sea buckthorn). Essential fatty acids include linoleic acid (LA, omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, omega-3). ALA is found in flaxseed, chia, hemp, and fresh grass, but is largely absent from dried hay.
Linoleic acid is especially important for maintaining the skin’s protective barrier. Deficiency may lead to dry, flaky skin, hair loss, and increased susceptibility to bacterial and yeast infections. Linoleic acid helps maintain internal skin hydration and prevents excessive moisture loss. Plant-based oils support the skin’s natural protective mechanisms, unlike fish-derived fatty acids, which do not have the same effect. Linoleic acid is abundant in grains, oats, hemp, and hemp oil.
Essential fatty acids must be obtained from the diet, as the body cannot synthesize them. Ensuring an appropriate balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is therefore crucial.
Deficiencies in essential fatty acids have been shown to affect not only skin health but also nervous system function. Omega fatty acids have a wide range of benefits, but one of their most well-documented effects is reducing inflammation, including in the skin. They also support coat shine and overall coat health.
Studies have shown that omega fatty acids support joint metabolism in osteoarthritis. In breeding animals, omega-3 fatty acids may reduce uterine inflammation during pregnancy, increase follicle size, and improve egg and embryo viability. Omega-3 supplementation may also benefit horses with inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, or laminitis.
Related products:
CdG Zinc - Zinc for horses 500 g, 29.90 €
New CDGE: Natural vitamin E for horses, 38.90 €
