🌷 Challenges for Horses in Spring

Horses in spring always face special challenges

Spring is a wonderful season – the days get longer, the sun gains strength, and everything starts to turn green. For us horse owners and our four-legged friends, this time brings new energy and joy, but also some challenges. The transition from winter to spring means weather changes, temperature fluctuations, and biological changes in the horse's body. One day it can be pleasantly warm, the next cold wind and rain sweep across the yard. This up and down of the weather challenges the horse's organism: The immune system must adapt to changed conditions, the metabolism adjusts, and important processes in the horse's body are now running at full speed. Nevertheless, spring is also a time of new beginnings – many horses feel the change of seasons and react with visible joy of life. In this blog post, we will look at the most important spring topics concerning horses. We start with general aspects of the change of seasons and then turn to specific areas: from shedding to feeding adjustments, grazing, allergies, and changed behavior. In addition, there are practical tips so that you can optimally prepare your horse for spring. Finally, some reflection questions invite you to review and adjust your horse care and management in spring.

Shedding: When the winter coat goes

With the first warm days, horses begin to shed their coats. Often, the first hairs loosen as early as January or February – silently, the body begins the transition from the dense winter coat to the short summer coat.

What seems like endless brushing and hair collecting to us is a real feat of metabolism for the horse. The entire organism is in turmoil, because a completely new coat grows within a few weeks. During this time, the body has "all hooves full" and many horses seem a little tired or need extra support. Older horses or those with weakened organisms are particularly noticeable during shedding: They shed more slowly and often have a harder time. In fact, especially during the shedding phase, horses have an increased risk of health problems, from a weakened immune system to movement disorders. If the horse is poorly nourished or suffers from pre-existing conditions, shedding can lead to subsequent problems such as skin eczema, coughing (bronchitis), or mud fever and allergies. No wonder many horse owners look at this phase with some concern.

Fortunately, there is a lot we can do to facilitate shedding. Intensive coat care is now a top priority: Daily thorough grooming and brushing helps your horse get rid of loose winter hair. This also stimulates blood circulation in the skin and supports the growth of a shiny summer coat. Many horses really enjoy these wellness sessions, as the itching caused by loose wool is relieved. Make sure your horse doesn't sweat too much or get too cold during the change: On warm March days, a thick coat can quickly lead to heat build-up, while on cold nights, areas where hair has shed can be sensitive. Creative management may be required here – such as a light blanket for clipped or very early "naked" horses on cold nights, or sweating off after training during the day so that a sweaty coat doesn't get cold.

Nutritionally, the horse also needs support now. For the formation of a new coat, additional nutrients are required, for example, proteins, minerals, and trace elements such as zinc and copper (important for skin and hair), as well as essential fatty acids. In the wild, the horse would absorb these building blocks from fresh spring grass. However, the grass has often hardly grown at the beginning of shedding – the grazing season has not really begun yet. As a result, the horse sometimes lacks omega-3 fatty acids and other unsaturated fatty acids, which are important for healthy coat and skin. A deficiency can lead to dry, dull coat, skin problems, and even poor hoof quality. Therefore, it can be useful to add additional oil or flaxseed to the feed to provide these fatty acids. Many horses also benefit from a high-quality mineral feed or special shedding supplements, which may contain brewer's yeast (for the gut flora) or certain amino acids. However, make sure not to simply combine wildly – adapt the supplements specifically to your horse's needs and, if in doubt, consult a feeding expert or veterinarian.

In short: Patience and care are the alpha and omega in spring. Support your horse with loving grooming and good feeding, and it will master the hairy transition well. If a horse does not shed its winter coat at all or only very incompletely, this is a warning signal – for example, Cushing's syndrome (ECS) could be behind it. In such cases, it is better to have a vet look at it. For most horses, however, the following applies: With a little extra attention, they get through shedding well and soon reward us with a shiny summer coat.

 

Feeding adjustments in spring

Spring also turns our feeding plans upside down. Nutritionally, a big change is happening now: After a winter with hay, silage, and perhaps beet pulp or mash, fresh greenery is coming back into play. The first tufts of grass sprout and with each day the pasture becomes more nutritious. This change means: From less energetic, high-fiber winter feed, it goes to protein and sugar-rich spring grass – and this is a challenge for digestion. Because the microorganisms in the horse's gut, which are responsible for feed fermentation, first have to get used to the new feed supply.

In winter, mainly hay-digesting bacteria were active; fresh grass, however, requires other helpers in the gut. If the change occurs too abruptly, the gut flora gets out of balance. The consequences: Diarrhea, loose stools, colic – and in the worst case, even symptoms of poisoning or laminitis. Therefore, it is enormously important to change the feeding in spring gradually and not to rush anything.

The biggest change, of course, concerns pasture feeding (more on that in the next section). But even regardless of grazing, you should keep a watchful eye on your horse's feeding plan in spring. Check whether the previous ration still fits: Many horses now need less concentrated feed if they can eat rich spring grass, as this provides a lot of energy. At the same time, you should not eliminate all supplements overnight – every new or reduced feed should be adjusted slowly. For example, if your horse received extra beet pulp or oats in winter, gradually reduce these amounts instead of cutting them out abruptly. Conversely, if you want to add a new supplement in spring (perhaps for shedding), introduce it in small doses so that digestion can adjust.

An important point is the roughage supply. Even if the grass begins to sprout, you should not immediately stop feeding hay completely. Horses need fibrous roughage for well-being and a healthy gut. In addition, young grass is often still very watery and protein-rich, but relatively low in fiber. Hay therefore remains an important part of the ration, especially as long as the pastures are not yet fully grown. Many experts recommend feeding hay before grazing so that horses do not come to the pasture with a completely empty stomach. I think this is a very good idea. A moderately "full" horse eats more slowly and less greedily in the pasture – this also prevents digestive problems. This trick is simple and effective: Give your horse a portion of hay before it goes into the fresh greenery, so the initial hunger is satisfied and grass intake is more moderate. Never go shopping hungry – this fits perfectly.

In addition to energy, vitamin and mineral supply must also be considered. Spring grass often contains plenty of beta-carotene (precursor of vitamin A) and vitamin E, as well as, of course, a lot of vitamin C from fresh herbs. However, some minerals in the soil can be scarce – depending on the region, pastures may be selenium-deficient or have an unfavorable calcium-phosphorus ratio. Therefore, make sure your horse continues to have access to a mineral lick stone or receives a suitable mineral feed. This way you avoid creeping deficiencies that could negatively affect health in the long term. Salt (as a salt lick stone) is also important, as horses sweat more in spring with rising temperatures.

In summary: Plan the feed transition carefully. Give your horse and its gut flora time to get used to the new spring diet. Keep an eye on your horse's weight – many tend to get a "spring belly" if they suddenly stand in the land of milk and honey "Green Pasture". Adjust the rations, but avoid radical changes. Your horse will thank you with health and contentment.

 

Grazing in spring: Enjoy fresh grass with caution

For many horses, there is nothing better than finally being allowed back out to pasture. After the often limited turnout opportunities in winter, grazing in spring means pure joy: lush grass, space to gallop and play, sun on their coats, and social contact in the herd. The benefits of regular grazing are enormous: Horses move freely all day long, which is good for muscles and joints. They can live out their natural grazing behavior – nibbling small amounts of grass for hours – which corresponds to their psyche and gastrointestinal tract. Fresh air and sunlight also promote vitamin D production and general well-being. One could say, grazing time is happy time for many horses.

However, the young spring grass also harbors risks, especially if horses are let out unprepared and without limit. The fresh greenery is bursting with fructan (sugar), proteins, and easily digestible carbohydrates. Horses tend to gorge themselves after winter if allowed – and this is exactly what can make them sick. Without slow acclimatization, the first extensive grazing often ends in diarrhea, colic, or even laminitis. In extreme cases, such a feeding indulgence can even be fatal. Unfortunately, year after year, cases of laminitis occur in spring because horses are allowed to eat too much grass too quickly. Laminitis is a painful inflammation of the hoof laminae, often triggered by excessive intake of water-soluble carbohydrates (such as fructan) in the grass. Especially ponies, easy keepers, and horses with pre-existing conditions such as EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome) or Cushing are at risk. Horses that have become a little chubby over the winter should also not be left on rich pasture unchecked now.

The good news: With the right management, your horse can enjoy the pasture to the fullest and stay healthy. The magic word is "gradual turnout". This means gradually increasing grazing time so that the gut flora and metabolism can adapt to the grass. Plan at least two, preferably three to four weeks for gradual turnout. In the first week, for example, 15 minutes of grazing per day is sufficient, in the second week about 30 minutes. Afterwards, you can increase to one hour per day and then continue to extend the duration continuously. These short grazing times at the beginning may seem stingy, but they are for the sake of your horse's health. You can also hand-graze your horse at first so that it eats slowly and you maintain control over the time.

Important: Even if the weather is already fantastic and your horse would prefer to stay in the meadow for hours – stay consistent. It's about preventing serious consequences. Every additional day of slow turnout strengthens the horse's body's ability to cope with the grass.

Another tip, as mentioned above, is not to send the horse to the pasture hungry. Give it enough hay beforehand so that the initial craving is curbed. This way, the grass is not inhaled in record time, but eaten more leisurely. Observe your horse closely during the turnout phase: Does it have soft droppings? Is its belly unusually bloated? Does it show reluctance or even pain (colic symptoms) after grazing? These are signs that you may need to reduce grazing time. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian in good time before it gets serious.
In this article, you can read in depth about the challenges we and our horses have to master when our horses return to pasture.

In addition to gradual turnout, there are other aspects of grass and pasture management in spring. The pasture itself needs care: Check fences, remove poisonous plants (which might sprout in spring, e.g., ragwort in the early stage), and pay attention to soil conditions. Spring can also mean bad weather – softened ground and muddy areas. To protect the sward, it's better not to let horses onto completely soaked paddocks, or limit movement there (e.g., only walk on muddy paddock and gallop only when it has dried). This way, you'll have more of an intact pasture all summer.

For horses with severe obesity or at risk of laminitis, it may be advisable to permanently limit grazing time, even after the initial turnout. In such cases, metabolic treatments (in consultation with a veterinarian) or practical solutions such as a grazing muzzle (grass collection bag or muzzle) can help reduce grass intake. Although this may look unusual, it still allows the horse social contact and exercise in the pasture without overeating. Alternatively, you can opt for temporary pasture deprivation, for example, putting the horses in a separate paddock during lunchtime when the fructan content in the grass is highest. Fructan typically accumulates in grasses during sunshine and is broken down overnight – therefore, a horse at risk of laminitis should graze in the early morning rather than late afternoon. After frosty nights, sensitive horses should also only be turned out in the afternoon, because frozen grass contains a lot of sugar.

Despite all precautions: Don't forget the positive effects of grazing! Your horse will thank you if it can roll, run, and graze with its friends. The fresh exercise keeps joints supple, prevents tension, and also helps with shedding (muscle movement stimulates hair change). The sun stimulates vitamin D production, which is important for bones and the immune system. And last but not least: A happy horse in the pasture also warms our rider's hearts. ?

So: enjoy spring, but with caution. Then the grazing season will remain a healthy joy for everyone. Zeolite can support our horses very well in this. Take a look at our products for horses in the shop.

 

Allergies and Respiratory Problems in Spring

As beautiful as spring is, for some horses it also brings allergic complaints. Just like us humans, horses can react to pollen count. When trees and grasses bloom, all sorts of pollen are in the air, which can lead to respiratory problems or skin reactions in sensitive horses. Coughing, nasal discharge, frequent sneezing, or even headshaking can be signs of a pollen allergy. Veterinarians often call this form atopic dermatitis or environmental allergy, depending on whether the skin or the respiratory tract is primarily affected. Common spring allergens include pollen from trees such as birch or oak, later also grass and herb pollen, as well as mold spores (which occur in warm, humid weather) and dust mites – the latter can unfortunately also be found in the stable and in hay. All these allergens, which cause hay fever and asthma in humans, can also cause allergies in horses. The symptoms then manifest either on the skin (itching, hives, weeping eczema) or on the respiratory organs (coughing, difficulty breathing).

A special topic – which, however, usually peaks a little later in spring and summer – is summer eczema. This is an allergic reaction to insect bites, especially those of small biting midges (Culicoides genus). In fact, insect allergy is the most common form of allergy in horses, and summer eczema (also called "Sweet Itch") is a well-known affliction of many horses, especially Icelandic horses and robust breeds. Already from April/May, when the first insects become active, affected horses begin to rub themselves vigorously – mane, tail root and belly seam are rubbed raw by the severe itching. Horseflies, black flies and other biting pests can also exacerbate allergies. In addition to skin problems, insects in spring can also cause eye inflammations (due to flies around the eyes) or generally cause restlessness and stress in horses.

What can you as a horse owner do to manage allergies and respiratory problems in spring? First of all: Observe your horse. Does it cough every spring when the first bushes bloom? Or does it scratch itself more in April? Such recurring patterns indicate seasonal triggers. In the case of dust and mold, you can try to make your horse's environment less allergenic: Now that it's getting warmer, you can, for example, ventilate more to improve dusty stable air. When mucking out the stable, the horse should not be in thick dust if possible. Hay can be moistened or steamed – especially for dust-sensitive horses – to reduce airborne particles. It often also helps to switch to dedusted bedding (such as dedusted shavings or pellet bedding) to reduce irritants in the respiratory tract. For pollen-allergic horses, this is trickier because pollen flies everywhere. You could try to keep the horse in the stable during peak pollen count times (usually mornings and evenings in dry weather) and put it in the pasture during the day or after rainfall – because rain washes pollen out of the air. There are also nose nets or special pollen masks for horses that can intercept some of the allergens, but the effectiveness varies individually.

For insect allergies, the key is to avoid contact as much as possible. A fly sheet or eczema rug with tightly woven fabric can protect your horse from midges before it starts rubbing. These blankets should be used as early as possible (often as early as March/April) to prevent a vicious cycle of itching and wounds. Fly masks protect the eyes and sometimes also the nostrils from insects – many horses wear them in spring and summer without problems. Make sure the mask fits well and does not cause chafing. You can also use insect repellents (sprays, gels, or even biological approaches such as garlic in feed, although its effectiveness is debatable) to keep flies and midges away. It is important to apply these remedies regularly, especially at dusk, when the small midges are most active.

Some horses develop hives (urticaria) in spring – sudden wheals appear all over the skin. This can be caused by allergies, but also by temperature changes (cold-warm). In any case, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for severe allergic reactions or persistent respiratory problems. There are medicinal aids such as antihistamines or, in severe cases, even cortisone, to alleviate acute allergy attacks. Similarly, naturopathic approaches (e.g., black cumin oil for respiratory problems, aloe vera for skin reactions) can be tried in consultation with a specialist.

Last but not least: Horse cough in spring can also be due to infections, as viruses and bacteria are naturally also circulating. So if your horse coughs, take a close look to see if it's "just" pollen or if a cold is behind it. In any case, now is the ideal time to strengthen your horse's immune system – be it through balanced feeding, possibly immune-boosting herbs, or simply through plenty of exercise in the fresh air, which keeps the lungs clear.

 

Behavior and Energy Levels: Spring Fever in Horses

Spring not only brings external changes but also has a strong effect on the mood of our horses. Many riders joke about the “joys of the first spring rides”, when the normally well-behaved horse suddenly declares every bush a monster and goes into exuberant bucking. There's actually science behind it: The increasing amount of daylight and the warming sun rays influence the horses' hormone balance. With longer days, the body releases less melatonin (sleep hormone) and more serotonin, known as the *“happiness hormone”. A high serotonin level in combination with decreasing melatonin tells the horse's body: “It's activity time, I feel awake and in a good mood. At the same time, the pleasant temperature (~5–15 °C, the feel-good climate for horses) stimulates circulation and blood flow.

In short: Our horses are getting a boost of energy and joy of life. After the grey winter, they experience a real energy surge and a need to move, similar to us humans. So it's no wonder if your horse is a bit "lively" in spring!

Added to this are primal instincts awakened by spring. In the wild, a rich feeding season begins now – horses instinctively know this (you often observe how they literally develop anticipation for juicy grass when they see the first green blades). In addition, the mating season is approaching: mares come into heat more frequently, and stallions and geldings can also be influenced by the reproductive drive. Dominance games and increased playfulness in the herd are now normal. So your horse has a lot of spring feelings to process!

For us riders and owners, this means: handle it with understanding and humor, but also with caution. Be happy that your horse feels good – its exuberance shows that it is healthy and spring is inspiring it. Nevertheless, you should pay particular attention to safety and training now. Horses that may have been worked less over winter now have excess energy. It is advisable to let them burn off this energy in a controlled manner before making great demands. For example, you could let your horse run free or lunge lightly in the arena before the first ride, so it can do a few bucks and let off steam. Many "hops" happen out of pure joy and urge to move – if the horse has been able to let off steam, it is often much more focused under saddle again. Especially for the first trail ride of the year, it is best not to go alone. Grab a calm handhorse companion or initially walk a round next to your horse to see how it reacts. The world outside is now full of new stimuli (rustling bushes, animals in spring mode, colorful kites in the sky?) – which offers a lot of potential for startling or becoming exuberant. So, stay on the safe side until you are both back in the "outside rhythm."

Many also notice in the riding arena: the horse has "ants in its pants". Instead of fighting against it, incorporate more variety and mental exercise into the training. Transitions, pole work, new lessons – the main thing is that the horse's head is kept busy so that the excess energy is channeled. Remaining consistent is important: despite all the joy, don't just let your horse trot off whenever it wants, or buck without consequences. Obedience exercises and clear rules give the horse stability and remind it of its manners. Many horses quickly return to a work ethic with consistent, varied work, even if they initially fool around. Remember to also increase your training moderately after a winter break – not only the mind, but also the muscles need to get used to the full workload again.

A word about mares in heat: In spring, many mares experience increased estrous cycles, which can sometimes explain moody or distracted behavior. Keep an eye out for whether your mare might be in heat if she is unusually ticklish on her belly, cuddly towards geldings, or moody when ridden. Sometimes understanding helps (and on particularly intense days, a little lighter work), in some cases chasteberry or other supplements can alleviate estrous behavior. In geldings and stallions, spring can also awaken hormones – geldings sometimes briefly remember that they are males, and stallions naturally have their own minds during breeding season. In such cases, calm, assertive handling is required, possibly spatial separation from mares if necessary, and simply time – it usually normalizes after a few weeks.

Overall: Be happy about a lively horse in spring! Its spirits are awakened. With a little management – plenty of exercise, fresh air, patient training – the excess energy quickly turns into positive energy that you can use for athletic progress or shared adventures. Spring is the time for new beginnings, even in the saddle!

 

Practical Tips for Springtime

Finally, we have summarized the most important practical tips for you. This way, you can optimally prepare your horse for the spring months and master typical challenges with ease:

• Gradual Turnout: Plan a precise grazing acclimatization schedule. Start with only a few minutes of grass per day and slowly increase grazing time over several weeks. Feed hay before grazing so that your horse does not eat too much grass in a hurry. This effectively prevents digestive problems and laminitis.
  

  

• Support Shedding: Equip yourself with a curry comb, dandy brush, and possibly a shedding blade or grooming glove – daily vigorous grooming helps your horse shed its winter coat. Pay attention to skin and coat quality: For dry, flaky skin, a dash of oil in the feed or a linseed oil lick stone can help provide essential fatty acids. Also gently brush sensitive areas (under the mane, on the belly) to relieve itching. Older horses appreciate a little extra warmth on cold nights if they are already in their thin coat. 

  

• Adjust Feeding: Review the amount of concentrate feed – does your horse still need the same energy intake as in winter, now that the grass is more nutritious? You can probably reduce starch and sugar to avoid weight gain. However, it is important that enough roughage is still available: rather leave some hay than have your horse go hungry. Make sure a mineral lick stone is always accessible to cover micronutrients. If your horse tends to have diarrhea, gastrointestinal herbs or a yogurt/kefir mash (for probiotics) can be helpful – but it's best to discuss such supplements with a feeding expert.

• Hoof and Pasture Management: Check your horse's hooves more frequently in spring. Due to changing weather, problems like thrush (in muddy ground) or dry, cracked hooves (with sudden warmth) can occur. Care for the hooves with suitable hoof care products as needed (greasing for wetness, moisturizing for dryness). Check the pasture fences before the season starts and repair broken areas – fresh spring energy could otherwise tempt your horse to unwanted exploration trips. Also make sure that troughs and watering points are clean; algae love the first warm days.
  

  

• Allergy prevention: If you know your horse's allergies, start with countermeasures early. For horses with sweet itch: Put on a rug and mask in good time, before the first midges swarm. Have an anti-itch cream (e.g., zinc cream or special eczema lotion or our zeolite wound ointment) ready to treat small irritated areas immediately. For dust-sensitive horses: Make the stable spring-ready now – clear out old hay bales that might be moldy, and choose fresh, good hay. Ventilate a lot, especially when mucking out, and consider steaming hay. Also, think about vaccinations: Many vaccination schedules include boosters in spring – check the passport to see if anything is due to prevent infectious diseases.

• Spring fitness program: Use your horse's newfound energy as an incentive for your training. Plan varied sessions – perhaps set up a small jumping course in the field, create a trail course, or practice new dressage lessons. This keeps your horse's mind engaged. If it is very frisky, do not hesitate to lunge briefly before you mount. Safety first, and there's nothing wrong with your horse being allowed to let off steam without a rider first. Organize rides with stable mates; many horses feel safer in a group, and you have support if a buck does occur. Also, think about your own fitness – after the winter break, slowly build up your stamina again, then you can really enjoy the spring sportingly.

With these tips, you and your horse will be well-prepared for the spring season. The key is a balance of caution and enjoyment: allow your horse the joy of spring, but always keep a watchful eye on its health.

Reflection questions for horse owners

Finally, a few questions to ponder: Take a moment and honestly answer for yourself how you and your horse are positioned for spring. These questions can help you find out if there is still something to improve or if you are already on the right track:

1. Feeding plan – Have I adapted my horse's feeding plan to the spring conditions? (e.g., gradual turnout, adjustment of concentrated feed quantity, mineral supply secured)
2. Coat change support – How am I currently helping my horse through the coat change? Am I using regular care and possibly feed supplements to facilitate the hair change?
3. Pasture management – Do I have a concrete plan for turning out and grazing? Do I know the risks (colic, laminitis) and am I doing enough to prevent them (slow increase, feeding hay beforehand, observing my horse for signs of intolerance)?
4. Allergies & Respiratory tract – Am I prepared if my horse has an allergic reaction? What measures do I have in place for spring allergies (e.g., fly protection, dust-free management, veterinary clarification for chronic cough)?
5. Behavior & Training – How do I deal with my horse's excess energy? Do I have a plan to provide my horse with enough exercise and activity to keep it balanced? Am I mentally prepared to calmly and consistently deal with possible "spring bucks"?
6. Overall management – Are there any other spring topics I should consider? (Such as hoof care, vaccination and deworming intervals, pasture care, equipment check – does the saddle still fit when the winter coat is off and the musculature changes?)

Take your time to answer these questions honestly. Spring is a transition period where you can do a lot right – but also a lot wrong if you are unprepared. The better you know your horse's needs during this season, the happier and healthier it will get through spring. And the most beautiful result is a contented, shiny horse that starts the warm season full of joy of life with you. In this sense: Enjoy spring and take care of yourselves – it is the time of renewal and blossoming, for humans and animals alike!

 

Zeolite as natural support for horses in spring 

Zeolite can help horses in spring in various ways to better cope with the challenges of this season. Thanks to its unique adsorptive, detoxifying and mineral-rich properties, it supports the organism in several areas:

1. Support during coat change

• The coat change stresses the metabolism and requires an increased supply of minerals and trace elements.
• Zeolite can help to relieve the body by binding heavy metals, metabolic waste products, and excess acids.
• This allows the body to utilize nutrients better, which has a positive effect on skin, coat, and the immune system.

2. Gut health & feeding adjustment.

The change from hay to fresh grass poses a challenge for the gut flora.

• Zeolite can help to regulate acidity in the gut, bind harmful substances and stabilize the gut flora.
• This can reduce digestive problems such as fecal water, diarrhea, or bloating and facilitate the transition to pasture grass.

3. Protection against laminitis and metabolic relief

Spring grass often contains high amounts of fructan and sugar, which increases the risk of metabolic problems such as laminitis.

• Zeolite can bind excess metabolic products, regulate pH levels, and thus contribute to relieving the liver and kidneys.
• Regular administration can help keep the metabolism stable and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases.

4. Immune system support for allergies & respiratory problems

Pollen, mold spores, and dust can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems in spring.

• Zeolite can help to bind toxins and allergy-triggering substances in the gut, thereby relieving the body and strengthening the immune system.
• Some horse owners report positive effects in allergic reactions such as sweet itch and respiratory irritations.

5. More energy & well-being through detoxification

The change of season can make horses tired or sluggish.

• Regular administration of zeolite supports the detoxification of the body, which can lead to more vitality and willingness to perform.
• At the same time, it can help to reduce muscle tension by regulating the acid-base balance.

Dosage & Application

• Zeolite can be mixed into the daily concentrated feed or mash.
• A typical dosage for horses is 5-10 g per 100 kg body weight daily.
• Important: Provide sufficient water so that the zeolite can unfold its effect optimally.

Conclusion: Zeolite can naturally support horses in spring – from coat change and pasture transition to strengthening metabolism and the immune system. A clever supplement for a healthy and energetic spring season! In the article - Everything you need to know about Zeolite for horses - you can read everything summarized.

 

To conclude: Go with nature – love life & appreciate renewal 

Spring is a time of new beginnings, renewal, and change – for nature as well as for our horses. Those who go with nature love life and recognize the value of constant change. The changes of this season bring challenges, but those who recognize them early and act proactively turn them into an opportunity for strengthening and development.

Challenge accepted! – The clever horse owner anticipates the spring challenges, takes timely precautions, and ensures a healthy adjustment for their horse. Be it through proactive pasture management, targeted coat change support, or mindful training, we can make the transition for our horses gentle and safe.

Spring teaches us: Renewal is a gift – we just need to accompany it mindfully to enjoy it to the fullest. 

 

This one turned out quite long - here's a summary for quick readers:

Summary: Challenges for horses in spring

Spring brings a mix of joy and challenges for horses and their owners. As nature renews itself, horses must adapt to changing conditions – both physically and mentally.

1. Coat change – energy expenditure and support

• The coat change places a heavy demand on the metabolism and can stress older or weaker horses.
• Daily grooming and an adapted diet with zinc, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids support the growth of the new summer coat.
• Horses with a slow coat change should be checked for health problems such as Cushing's disease.

2. Feeding – transition from hay to spring grass

• Spring grass is rich in protein and sugar, which can strain the digestive system.

• Gradual acclimatization is crucial to prevent digestive disorders and laminitis.
• Roughage (hay) should continue to be fed to support gut health.

3. Grazing – risks and benefits

• The transition to pasture must be gradual (turning out over several weeks).
• A sudden change can lead to colic, diarrhea, or laminitis.
• Pasture hygiene is important: Check fences, remove poisonous plants, clean water troughs.

4. Allergies and respiratory problems

• Pollen, mold spores, and insects can cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems.
• Prevention: Fly sheets, nose nets, de-dusted hay, and good stable ventilation.
• Eczema-prone horses should be provided with protective measures early.

5. Behavior & Energy Level – Spring Feelings in the Horse's Body

• Longer days and mild weather influence hormone levels and often lead to more energy and playfulness.
• Safety in training: Acclimatize horses slowly to the season, if necessary, let them burn off energy on the lunge.
• Harmony instead of stress: Clear rules and varied training help to make the most of spring.

Practical tips for horse owners

✅ Increase turnout slowly, starting with 15 minutes per day
✅ Support coat change with care and minerals
✅ Monitor grazing periods and gradually adapt feed
✅ Prevent allergies early (e.g., through insect protection and pollen management)
✅ Adjust training and pay attention to excess energy

Reflection questions for horse owners

1. Have I adjusted my feeding plan for spring?
2. Am I optimally supporting my horse during the coat change?
3. Am I planning the turnout gradually and controlled?
4. Am I prepared for potential allergies and respiratory problems?
5. Am I considering my horse's increasing energy during training?

With the right balance of caution and joy, spring will be a healthy and happy season for your horse! 

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