Challenges for horses in spring

Horses in spring always have special challenges

Spring is a wonderful time of year – the days are getting longer, the sun is getting stronger, and everything is turning green. For us horse owners and our four-legged friends, this time of year brings new energy and zest for life, but also some challenges . The change from winter to spring means a change in the weather , 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 farm. This up and down of the weather challenges the horse's organism: the immune system has to adapt to changing conditions, the metabolism is changing, 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 sense the change of season and react with visible zest for life . In this blog article, we look at the most important spring topics for horses. We start with general aspects of the change of season and then move on to specific areas: from coat change and feeding adjustments to grazing, allergies, and changed behavior. We also offer practical tips to help you prepare your horse optimally for spring . Finally, some reflection questions invite you to rethink and adapt your own horse care and management in spring.

Change of coat: When the winter fur goes

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

What seems to us like endless brushing and hair collecting is, for the horse, a real peak metabolic performance . The entire organism is in turmoil because within a few weeks a completely new coat grows. During this time the body has its work cut out for it and many horses appear somewhat tired or need extra support. Older horses or those with a weakened organism are particularly noticeable during the coat change: they shed their hair more slowly and often find it more difficult. In fact, it is precisely during the coat change that horses are at increased risk of health problems, from a weakened immune system to movement disorders . If the horse is poorly supplied with nutrients or suffers from pre-existing conditions, the coat change can lead to secondary problems such as skin eczema, coughing (bronchitis), mud fever and allergies. It is no wonder that many horse owners are somewhat concerned about this phase.

Fortunately, there are a few things we can do to make the coat change easier. Intensive coat care is now a top priority: A thorough daily grooming and brushing helps your horse get rid of the 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 because they relieve the itching caused by the loose wool. Make sure your horse doesn't sweat too much or get cold during the change: On warm March days, a thick coat can quickly lead to heat build-up, while on cold nights, shed areas can be sensitive. Creative management may be required here – for example, a light blanket for clipped horses or horses that are already "naked" very early on on cold nights, or a sweating session during the day after training to prevent a sweaty coat from cooling down.

The horse also needs nutritional support now. The formation of a new coat requires additional nutrients , such as proteins, minerals, and trace elements such as zinc and copper (important for skin and hair), as well as essential fatty acids . In the wild, a horse would get these building blocks from fresh spring grass. However, the grass is often barely grown when the coat change begins – the grazing season has not yet really begun. As a result, the horse may be lacking in omega-3 fatty acids and other unsaturated fatty acids, which are important for a healthy coat and skin. A deficiency can lead to a dry, dull coat, skin problems, and even poor hoof quality. It can therefore be beneficial to add oil or linseed to the feed to provide these fatty acids. Many horses also benefit from a high-quality mineral feed or special coat change supplements, such as brewer's yeast (for the intestinal flora) or certain amino acids, during the coat change. But be careful not to simply combine things randomly – 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 essential in spring. Support your horse with loving grooming and good feeding, and it will cope well with the hairy transition. If a horse doesn't shed its winter coat at all or only sheds it incompletely, this is a warning sign – it could be due to Cushing's syndrome (ECS), for example. In such cases, it's best to have your veterinarian take a look. For most horses, however, with a little extra attention, they will get through the change of coat well and will soon reward you with a shiny summer coat.

Feeding adjustments in spring

Spring also turns our feeding plans upside down. A major nutritional shift is taking place: After a winter of hay, silage, and perhaps beets or mash, fresh greens are returning. The first tufts of grass are sprouting, and the pasture is becoming more nutritious with each day. This transition means moving from the low-energy, high-fiber winter forage to the protein- and sugar-rich spring grass – and this poses a challenge for digestion. The microorganisms in the horse's intestine, which are responsible for forage fermentation, first have to get used to the new forage supply.

In winter, hay-digesting bacteria were primarily active; however, fresh grass requires other helpers in the intestines. If the change is too abrupt, the intestinal flora becomes unbalanced. The consequences: diarrhea, loose stools, colic —and in the worst case, even symptoms of poisoning or laminitis . Therefore, it is extremely important to gradually change feeding in the spring and not rush into anything.

The biggest change, of course, is pasture feeding (more on this in the next section). But even regardless of grazing, you should keep a close eye on your horse's feeding plan in spring. Check whether the current ration is still suitable: many horses need less concentrate now when they can eat rich spring grass, because this provides a lot of energy. At the same time, however, you shouldn't cut out all supplements overnight - any new or reduced feed should be introduced slowly . If your horse was given extra beet pulp or oats in the winter, for example, reduce these amounts gradually rather than eliminating them all at once. The other rule applies: if you want to add a new supplement in spring (perhaps for the coat change), introduce it in small doses so that the digestion can adjust to it.

One important point is the supply of roughage . Even when the grass starts to sprout, you shouldn't stop giving hay completely straight away. Horses need structurally rich crude fiber for their well-being and for a healthy gut. In addition, young grass is often still very watery and high in protein, but relatively low in crude fiber . Hay therefore remains an important part of the ration, especially as long as the pastures are not yet in full crop. Many experts recommend feeding hay before going out to graze so that the horses do not go out on an empty stomach. I think this is a very good idea. A horse that is reasonably full will eat more slowly and less greedily in the paddock - this also prevents digestive problems. This trick is simple and effective: give your horse a portion of hay before going out into the fresh grass. This way, its initial hunger is satisfied and grass intake is more moderate . Never go shopping hungry - that fits in well with that.

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

In summary: Plan the feed change carefully . Give your horse and its intestinal flora time to adjust to the new spring diet . Keep an eye on your horse's weight —many tend to gain a little potbelly in the spring when they suddenly find themselves in the land of plenty, "green pasture." Adjust the rations, but avoid drastic jumps . Your horse will thank you with health and contentment.

Grazing in spring: Enjoy fresh grass with caution

For many horses, there's nothing better than finally being able to go out to pasture again. After the often limited opportunities to roam in winter , grazing in spring is pure joy: lush grass, space to gallop and play, sunshine on their coats, and social interaction within the herd. The benefits of regular grazing are enormous: horses move freely throughout the day, which is good for their muscles and joints. They can indulge their natural grazing behavior —that is, plucking small amounts of grass for hours—which is good for their psyche and their gastrointestinal tract. Fresh air and sunlight also promote vitamin D production and general well-being. You could say that grazing is a happy time for many horses.

However, young spring grass also poses risks , particularly if horses are let out on it unprepared and without limit. The fresh green grass is bursting with fructan (sugar) , protein and easily digestible carbohydrates. Horses tend to really stuff themselves after the winter if they are allowed to - and this is exactly what can make them ill. Without a slow acclimatisation, the first extensive grazing often ends in diarrhea, colic or even laminitis . In extreme cases, such excessive feeding can even be fatal. Unfortunately, every year in spring cases of laminitis occur because horses are allowed to eat too much grass too quickly. Laminitis is a painful inflammation of the hoof capsule, often triggered by the excessive intake of water-soluble carbohydrates (such as fructan) in grass. Ponies, light-feeding breeds and horses with pre-existing conditions such as EMS (equine metabolic syndrome) or Cushing's disease are particularly at risk. Even horses that have become a bit chubby over the winter should not be left unattended on rich pastures.

The good news: With the right management , your horse can enjoy the pasture to the fullest and stay healthy . The magic word is “grazing” . This means gradually increasing the grazing time so that the intestinal flora and metabolism can adapt to the grass. Plan at least two, or ideally three to four weeks for grazing. In the first week, for example, 15 minutes of grazing per day is sufficient, and in the second week around 30 minutes. You can then increase to one hour per day and then gradually increase the duration. These short grazing times at the beginning may seem stingy, but they are for the sake of your horse’s health. You can also let your horse graze on a guided tour at the beginning so that it eats slowly and you retain control over the time.

Important: Even if the weather is already fantastic and your horse would love to stay in the meadow for hours, be consistent . It's about preventing serious consequences. Every additional day of slow grazing strengthens the horse's body's ability to handle the grass.

Another tip , as mentioned above, is not to send your horse out to pasture hungry . Give him plenty of hay beforehand to curb his initial hunger. This way, he won't inhale the grass in record time, but will eat it more leisurely. Observe your horse closely during the introductory grazing phase: Is he having soft stools? Is his stomach unusually distended? Does he show reluctance or even pain (colic symptoms) after grazing? These are signs that you may need to slow down the grazing time. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian in good time before things get serious.

In addition to grazing, there are other aspects of grass and pasture management in spring. The pasture itself requires maintenance: Check fences, remove poisonous plants (that might sprout in spring, e.g., early ragwort), and pay attention to soil conditions . Spring can also mean inclement weather —soggy ground and muddy patches. To protect the turf, avoid allowing horses into completely soaked paddocks, or limit their movement there (e.g., only walk on muddy paddocks and canter only when it has dried out). This way, you'll get more out of an intact pasture all summer long.

For horses that are severely overweight or at risk of laminitis, it can be advisable to permanently limit grazing time, even after initial grazing. In such cases, metabolic treatments (after consultation with the veterinarian) or practical solutions such as a feeding barrier (grass catcher or muzzle) can help reduce grass intake. This may look unusual, but it still allows the horse social contact and exercise in the pasture without overeating. Another option is to temporarily deprive the horse of grazing , for example, by moving the horses to a separate paddock at midday when the fructan content in the grass is at its highest. Fructan typically accumulates in the grass in sunshine and is broken down overnight – a horse at risk of laminitis is therefore better allowed to graze early in the morning rather than late in the afternoon. After frosty nights, sensitive horses should also be allowed to graze in the afternoon because frozen grass contains a lot of sugar.

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

So: enjoy spring , but do so with caution. Then the grazing season will remain a healthy joy for everyone.

Allergies and respiratory problems in spring

As beautiful as spring is, it can also bring with it allergic symptoms for some horses. Just like humans, horses can react to pollen . When trees and grasses bloom, all kinds 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 allergens in spring are pollen from trees such as birch or oak, later also grass and weed pollen, as well as mold spores (which appear in warm, humid weather) and dust mites - the latter can unfortunately also be found in stables and hay. All of these allergens, which trigger hay fever and asthma in humans, can also cause allergies in horses. The symptoms then appear either on the skin (itching, hives, weeping eczema) or on the respiratory organs (coughing, difficulty breathing).

A special issue – which usually peaks later in the spring and summer – is sweet itch . This is an allergic reaction to insect bites, especially those from small biting midges (gnats of the genus Culicoides) . In fact, insect allergy is the most common form of allergy in horses, and sweet itch (also called "sweet itch") is a well-known affliction in many horses, particularly Icelandic horses and robust breeds. As early as April/May, when the first insects become active, affected horses begin to rub themselves violently – their manes, dock of the tail, and belly seam become raw from the intense itching. Horseflies, black flies, and other biting pests can also aggravate allergies. In addition to skin problems, insects in spring can also cause eye infections (from flies biting the eyes) or generally cause restlessness and stress in horses.

What can you do as a horse owner 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 more often 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 often to improve dusty stable air. When mucking out the stable, the horse should, if possible, not stand in thick dust. Hay can be moistened or steamed – especially for horses sensitive to dust – to reduce airborne particles. It is often also helpful to switch to dust-free bedding (such as dust-free shavings or pellet bedding) so that fewer irritants reach the respiratory tract. This is more difficult for horses that are allergic to pollen because the pollen is everywhere. You could try keeping your horse in the stable during peak pollen season (usually mornings and evenings in dry weather) and taking it out to the paddock during the day or after a rain shower – because rain washes pollen out of the air. Nose nets or special pollen masks for horses are also available, which can trap some of the allergens, although their effectiveness varies from individual to individual.

If you have an insect allergy , avoid contact as much as possible. A fly rug or eczema rug with a tight-meshed fabric can protect your horse from mosquitoes before it starts to chafe. These rugs should be used as early as possible (often as early as March/April) to prevent a vicious cycle of itching and sores from developing. Fly masks protect the eyes and sometimes also the nostrils from insects – many horses wear them in spring and summer without any problems. Make sure the mask fits well and does not cause chafing. You can also use insect repellents to keep flies and mosquitoes away. There are sprays, gels, or even organic approaches like adding garlic to the feed (although its effectiveness is controversial). It is important that you use these repellents regularly, especially at dusk when the small mosquitoes are most active.

Some horses develop hives (urticaria) in the spring – hives suddenly appear all over their skin. This can be caused by allergies, but can also be triggered by changes in temperature (from cold to warm). In any case, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian in the case of severe allergic reactions or persistent respiratory problems. Medications such as antihistamines or, in severe cases, even cortisone, are available to relieve acute allergy attacks. Naturopathic approaches (e.g., black seed oil for respiratory problems, aloe vera for skin reactions) can also be tried in consultation with a specialist.

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

Behavior and energy level: Spring fever in horses

Spring not only brings external changes, but also has a strong effect on our horses' mood . Many riders joke about the "joy of the first rides in spring" , when the normally well-behaved horse suddenly declares every bush to be a monster and starts jumping around in high-spirited frenzy. There is actually science behind it: the increasing amount of daylight and the warming rays of sunshine influence the horses' hormone balance . With the longer days, the body releases less melatonin (sleep hormone) and more serotonin , known as the * "happiness hormone" . A high serotonin level combined with falling 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 recharging their batteries and feeling the joy of life . After the gray winter, just like us humans, they feel a real surge of energy and the need to move. So, it's no wonder your horse is in a bit of a "happy" mood in the spring!

Added to this are primal instincts that spring awakens. In the wild, a rich feeding season begins now – horses know this instinctively (you often observe them genuinely anticipating lush grass when they see the first green stalks). Mating season is also approaching: mares are increasingly coming into heat, and stallions and even geldings can be influenced by the reproductive drive . Dominance games and heightened playfulness in the herd are normal now. So, your horse has a lot of spring fever to process!

For us riders and owners, this means dealing with it with understanding and humor, but also with caution . Be happy that your horse is feeling good - its high spirits show that it is healthy and that spring is inspiring it. However, you should still pay particular attention to safety and training now. Horses that may have been worked less over the winter now have excess energy. It is advisable to let them release this energy in a controlled manner before you place great demands on them. For example, before the first ride, you could let your horse run free in the arena or lunge it lightly so that it can do a few bucks and let off steam. A lot of “jumping” happens out of pure joy and the need to move - if the horse has been able to let off steam, it is often much more focused under the saddle. It is best not to undertake the first cross-country ride of the year alone. Grab a calm hand-horse companion or walk beside your horse for a while 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?) – this offers plenty of potential for scaring or getting carried away . So it's best to play it safe until you're both back in the "outdoor rhythm."

Many people also notice in the riding arena that their horse has "ants in its pants." Instead of fighting it, incorporate more variety and mental stimulation into training. Transitions, pole work, new exercises – the main thing is to keep the horse's mind occupied so that excess energy is channeled. It is important to remain consistent: despite all the joy, do not let your horse simply trot off whenever it wants or buck without consequences. Obedience exercises and clear rules give the horse stability and remind it of its manners. With consistent, varied work, many horses quickly regain their work ethic , even if they fool around at first. Remember to 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 go into estrus more frequently, which can sometimes explain moody or distracted behavior. Keep an eye on whether your mare is in estrus if she is unusually ticklish on the belly, cuddly towards geldings, or bitchy when ridden. Sometimes understanding can help (and, on particularly rough days, a little easier work); in some cases, chasteberry or other supplements can alleviate estrus behavior. In geldings and stallions, spring can also awaken the hormones - geldings sometimes briefly remember that they are male, and stallions naturally have a mind of their own during the breeding season. In such cases , calm, firm handling is required, perhaps physical separation from mares if necessary, and simply time - things usually return to normal after a few weeks.

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

Practical tips for spring

Finally, we've compiled a clear overview of the most important practical tips . This will help you optimally prepare your horse for the spring months and overcome typical challenges with links:

• Gradual grazing : Plan a precise pasture acclimation plan. Start with just a few minutes of grass a day and gradually increase the grazing time over several weeks. Feed hay before grazing so your horse doesn't overeat too quickly. This effectively prevents digestive problems and laminitis.
  

  

• Supporting the shedding season : Equip yourself with a curry comb, a body brush, and possibly a feather curry comb or grooming glove – vigorous daily brushing will help your horse shed its winter coat. Pay attention to the skin and coat quality: For dry, flaky coats, a dash of oil in the feed or a linseed oil lick can help provide essential fatty acids. Gently brush sensitive areas (under the mane, on the belly) to relieve itching. Older horses appreciate a little extra warmth on cold nights when their coats are already thin.

  

• Adjust your diet : Check the amount of concentrate – does your horse really 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's important to ensure there's still enough roughage available: it's better to leave some hay unused than to let your horse go hungry. Make sure a mineral lick stone is always within reach to ensure micronutrients are replenished. If your horse is prone to diarrhea, gastrointestinal herbs or a yogurt/kefir mash (for probiotics) can be helpful – but it's best to discuss such supplements with a nutritionist.

• Hoof and pasture management : Check your horse's hooves more frequently in spring. Changing weather can cause problems such as thrush (in muddy ground) or dry, cracked hooves (in sudden warm weather). Care for the hooves with a suitable hoof care product as needed (greasing in wet conditions, moisturizing in dry conditions). Check pasture fences before the season starts and repair any damaged areas – otherwise, fresh spring energy could entice your horse to unwanted explorations. Also, make sure troughs and watering holes are clean; algae love the first warm days.
  

  

• Allergy prevention : If you know your horse's allergies, start taking countermeasures early. For horses with sweet itch: Apply a blanket and mask well in advance of the first mosquitoes swarming. Keep an anti-itch ointment (e.g., zinc ointment or special eczema lotion or our Zeolite Wound Ointment ) on hand to treat small irritated areas immediately. For horses sensitive to dust: Get the stable ready for spring now – clear out old hay bales that might be moldy and choose fresh, good-quality hay. Air out well, especially when mucking out, and consider steaming the hay. Don't forget vaccinations : Many vaccination schedules call for boosters in the spring – check the vaccination record to see if anything is due to prevent infectious diseases.

• Spring fitness program : Use your horse's newfound energy as motivation for your training. Plan varied sessions – perhaps set up a small jumping course in the countryside, create a trail course, or practice new dressage moves. This way, your horse's mind will stay with you. If it's very high-spirited, don't be afraid to lunge it briefly before you mount. Safety comes first, and there's nothing wrong with letting your horse run around without a rider first. Organize rides with stablemates; many horses feel safer in a group, and you'll have support if a jump does occur. Think about your own fitness, too – slowly build up your fitness after the winter break, and then you can really enjoy spring in a sporty way.

With these tips, you and your horse will be well-prepared for the spring season. The balance between caution and enjoyment is key: Allow your horse to enjoy the joys of spring, but always keep a watchful eye on his health.

Reflection questions for horse owners

Finally, a few questions to consider: Take a moment to reflect and honestly answer how you and your horse are doing in the spring. These questions can help you determine whether there's still room for improvement or whether you're already on the right track:

1. Feeding plan – Have I adjusted my horse's feeding plan to the spring conditions? (e.g., gradual grazing , adjusting the amount of concentrate, ensuring mineral intake)
2. Shedding support – How do I help my horse through the shedding process? Do I use regular grooming and possibly feed supplements to make the shedding process easier?
3. Pasture management – ​​Do I have a concrete plan for grazing and the grazing season? Am I aware of the risks (colic, laminitis) and am I doing enough to prevent them (gradual increase, feeding hay beforehand, monitoring my horse for signs of intolerance)?
4. Allergies & Respiratory System – Am I prepared if my horse has an allergic reaction? What measures do I have in place in case of spring allergies (e.g., fly repellent, low-dust management, veterinary evaluation 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 him balanced? Am I mentally prepared to deal calmly and consistently with potential "spring bucking" behaviors?
6. Overall management – ​​Are there any other spring issues I should consider? (Such as hoof care, vaccination and deworming intervals, pasture care, equipment check – will the saddle still fit once the winter coat is gone and the muscles are changing?)

Take the time to answer these questions honestly. Spring is a transitional period in which you can do a lot right—but also a lot wrong if you're unprepared. The better you understand your horse's needs during this time of year, the more comfortable and healthy it will be throughout the spring. And the best result is a content, radiant horse that's full of vitality and ready to start the warmer season with you. With that in mind, enjoy spring and treat yourself—it's a time of renewal and blossoming , for both humans and animals!

Zeolite as natural support for horses in spring

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

1. Support during coat change

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

2. Intestinal health & feeding adjustment.

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

• Zeolite can help regulate excess acidity in the intestine , bind harmful substances and stabilize the intestinal flora .
• This can reduce digestive problems such as loose stools, diarrhea or flatulence 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 the pH value and thus help relieve the strain on the liver and kidneys .
• Regular administration can help keep metabolism stable and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases.

4. Supports the immune system in cases of allergies and respiratory problems

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

• Zeolite can help bind toxins and allergens in the intestines , thereby relieving the body and strengthening the immune system.
• Some horse owners report positive effects on allergic reactions such as sweet itch and respiratory irritation .

5. More energy & well-being through detoxification

The change of season can make horses tired or sluggish.

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

Dosage & Application

• Zeolite can be mixed into daily concentrate 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 develop its optimal effect.

Conclusion: Zeolite can provide natural support for 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 conclusion: Walk 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 walk 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 can turn them into opportunities for strength and development.

Challenge accepted! – The wise horse owner anticipates the challenges of spring, takes timely precautions , and ensures a healthy adjustment for their horse. Whether through proactive grazing management , targeted support during the coat change, or mindful training , we can make the transition smooth and safe for our horses.

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

This has become quite long - here is 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. Shedding – energy expenditure and support

• The change of coat puts a great strain on the metabolism and can be a burden on 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 slow coat changes 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 put a strain on the digestive system .

• Gradual transition is crucial to avoid digestive disorders and laminitis.
• Roughage (hay) should continue to be fed to support intestinal health.

3. Grazing – risks and benefits

• The transition to pasture must be slow (grazing 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, dust-free hay and good stable ventilation .
• Horses with eczema should be provided with protective measures at an early stage .

5. Behavior & Energy Level – Spring Fever in the Horse’s Body

• Longer days and mild weather influence hormone levels and often lead to more energy and enthusiasm for playing.
• Safety in training: Get horses used to the season slowly, and if necessary, let them work out on the lunge.
• Harmony instead of stress: Clear rules and varied training help you make the most of spring.

Practical tips for horse owners

✅ Slowly increase grazing , starting with 15 minutes per day
✅ Support coat change with care and minerals
✅ Monitor grazing and gradually adjust feed
✅ Prevent allergies early (e.g. through insect protection and pollen management)
✅ Adjust your 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. Do I plan the grazing process gradually and in a controlled manner?
4. Am I prepared for possible allergies and breathing problems ?
5. Do I take my horse's increasing energy into account during training?

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