Challenges for horses in spring

Horses face particular challenges in spring.

Spring is a wonderful time of year – the days grow longer, the sun gains strength, and everything begins 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 changing weather , fluctuating temperatures, 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 has to adapt to changing 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 sense the change of seasons and react with visible joy . In this blog post, we'll look at the most important spring-related topics concerning horses. We'll start with general aspects of the change of seasons and then turn to specific areas: from shedding and adjusting feed to grazing, allergies, and changes in behavior. We'll also provide practical tips so you can optimally prepare your horse for spring . Finally, some reflection questions invite you to reconsider and adapt your own horse care and management in the spring.

Shedding: When the winter coat comes off

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

What seems to us like endless brushing and hair collection is actually a real metabolic feat for the horse. The entire organism is in turmoil , as a completely new coat grows within just a few weeks. During this time, the body is working flat out, and many horses appear somewhat tired or need extra support. Older horses or those with weakened systems are particularly noticeable during shedding: they shed more slowly and often have more difficulty. In fact, the shedding phase poses an increased risk of health problems for horses, ranging from a weakened immune system to movement disorders . If the horse is nutritionally deficient or suffers from pre-existing conditions, shedding can lead to secondary problems such as skin eczema, coughing (bronchitis), mud fever, and allergies. It's no wonder that many horse owners view this phase with some apprehension.

Fortunately, there are several things we can do to make shedding easier. Intensive grooming is now paramount: Daily, thorough curry combing and brushing helps your horse shed its loose winter hair. This also stimulates blood circulation in the skin and promotes the growth of a glossy summer coat. Many horses truly enjoy these pampering sessions, as the itching caused by loose fur is relieved. Make sure your horse doesn't overheat or get too cold during the shedding season: On warm March days, a thick coat can quickly lead to overheating, while on cold nights, shed areas can be sensitive. This may require some creative management – ​​for example, a light blanket for clipped or very early-shedding horses on cold nights, or allowing them to cool down after exercise during the day to prevent a sweaty coat from getting chilled.

The horse also needs nutritional support during this time. Additional nutrients are required for the growth of a new coat, such as proteins, minerals, and trace elements like zinc and copper (important for skin and hair), as well as essential fatty acids . In the wild, the horse would obtain these building blocks from fresh spring grass. However, at the beginning of the shedding season, the grass is often still sparse – the grazing season hasn't really started yet. As a result, the horse may lack omega-3 fatty acids and other unsaturated fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and coat. A deficiency can lead to a dry, dull coat, skin problems, and even poor hoof quality. Therefore, it can be beneficial to add extra oil or linseed to the feed to provide these fatty acids. Many horses also benefit from a high-quality mineral supplement or special shedding supplements during the shedding season, which may contain, for example, brewer's yeast (for gut flora) or specific amino acids. However, be careful not to simply combine things haphazardly – ​​tailor the supplements specifically to your horse's needs and, if in doubt, consult a feeding expert or veterinarian.

In short: patience and care are key in spring. Support your horse with loving grooming and good nutrition, and it will cope well with the change in its winter coat. If a horse doesn't shed its winter coat at all or only very partially, this is a warning sign – it could be due to Cushing's syndrome (ECS), for example. In such cases, it's best to have a vet check it out. For most horses, however, with a little extra attention, they get through the shedding season well and will soon reward us with a glossy summer coat.

Feeding adjustments in spring

Spring also turns our feeding plans upside down. Nutritionally, a major change is taking place: After a winter of hay, silage, and perhaps beets or mash , fresh green grass is now coming into play. The first tufts of grass are sprouting, and with each passing day, the pasture becomes more nutritious. This change means moving from the lower-energy, high-fiber winter feed to the protein- and sugar-rich spring grass – and this poses a challenge for digestion. The microorganisms in the horse's gut, responsible for feed fermentation, first need to adapt to the new food supply.

During winter, hay-digesting bacteria were particularly active; however, fresh grass requires different beneficial bacteria in the gut. If the change is too abrupt, the gut flora becomes unbalanced. The consequences: diarrhea, loose stools, colic – and in the worst case, even poisoning or laminitis . Therefore, it is extremely important to change the feed gradually in spring and not to rush the process.

The biggest change, of course, concerns grazing (more on that in the next section). But even apart from grazing, you should keep a close eye on your horse's feed plan in spring. Check if the current ration is still appropriate: Many horses need less concentrated feed now that they can eat lush spring grass, as this provides plenty of energy. At the same time, you shouldn't eliminate all supplements overnight – any new or reduced feed should be adjusted gradually . For example, if your horse received extra beet pulp or oats during the winter, reduce these amounts little by little instead of stopping them abruptly. Conversely, if you want to add a new supplement in spring (perhaps for shedding), introduce it in small doses so that the digestive system can adjust.

An important point is the roughage supply . Even when the grass starts to sprout, you shouldn't immediately stop feeding hay completely. Horses need high-fiber, structured roughage for their well-being and a healthy gut. Furthermore, young grass is often very high in water and protein, but relatively low in roughage . Hay therefore remains an important part of the ration, especially while the pastures aren't yet fully laden with grass. Many experts recommend feeding hay before grazing so that the horses don't go out to pasture with a completely empty stomach. I think this is a very good idea. A horse that's at least somewhat "satisfied" eats more slowly and less greedily in the paddock – this also helps prevent digestive problems. This trick is simple and effective: Give your horse a portion of hay before it goes out onto the fresh grass; this will satisfy its initial hunger and result in more moderate grass intake . Never go shopping hungry – it fits in perfectly here.

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

In summary: Plan the change in feed carefully . Give your horse and its gut flora time to adjust to the new spring diet . Keep an eye on your horse's weight – many tend to develop a bit of a belly in the spring when they suddenly find themselves in the land of plenty, lush green pastures. 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's nothing better than finally being allowed back out to pasture . After the often limited turnout opportunities during the winter , grazing in the spring means pure joy: lush grass, space to gallop and play, sunshine on their coats, and social interaction with the herd. The benefits of regular grazing are enormous: the horses move freely all day long, which is good for their muscles and joints. They can indulge their natural grazing behavior – nibbling small amounts of grass for hours – which is beneficial for their mental and digestive systems. Fresh air and sunlight also promote vitamin D production and overall well-being. You could say that grazing time is happy time for many horses.

However, young spring grass also poses risks , especially if horses are allowed to graze on it unprepared and without limits. The fresh green grass is bursting with fructan (sugar) , protein, and easily digestible carbohydrates. Horses tend to overeat after winter if given the chance – and this can make them ill. Without a gradual acclimatization, the first extensive grazing often ends with diarrhea, colic, or even laminitis . In extreme cases, such overeating can even be fatal. Unfortunately, every spring, cases of laminitis occur because horses are allowed to eat too much grass too quickly. Laminitis is a painful inflammation of the sensitive laminae of the hoof, often triggered by excessive intake of water-soluble carbohydrates (such as fructan) in the grass. Ponies, easy keepers, 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 now be left uncontrolled on lush pasture.

The good news: With proper management , your horse can fully enjoy grazing and stay healthy . The magic word is "gradual introduction to pasture." This means increasing grazing time step by step so that the gut flora and metabolism can adapt to the grass. Plan for at least two, ideally three to four weeks for this introduction. In the first week, for example, 15 minutes of grazing per day is sufficient, in the second week about 30 minutes. Afterward, you can increase to one hour per day and then continue to gradually extend the duration. These short grazing times at the beginning might seem stingy, but they are essential for your horse's health. You can also lead your horse while grazing 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 love to stay in the pasture for hours – be consistent . It's about preventing serious consequences. Every additional day of gradual grazing strengthens the horse's body's ability to cope with grass.

Another tip , as mentioned above, is not to send your horse out to pasture hungry . Give it plenty of hay beforehand to curb its initial hunger. This way, it won't inhale the grass in record time but will graze more leisurely. Observe your horse closely during the initial grazing phase: Is its manure loose? Is its belly unusually bloated? Does it show reluctance or even pain (colic symptoms) after grazing? These are signs that you might need to reduce its grazing time. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian in good time before things get serious.

Besides the initial grazing period, there are other aspects of grass and pasture management in spring. The pasture itself needs care: check the fences, remove poisonous plants (which might sprout in spring, e.g., ragwort in its early stages), and pay attention to the soil conditions . Spring can also mean bad weather – soggy ground and muddy patches. To protect the turf, it's best not to let horses onto completely waterlogged paddocks, or to limit their movement there (e.g., only walking in a muddy paddock and cantering only once it has dried out). This way, you'll benefit from a healthy pasture all summer long.

For horses that are severely overweight or at risk of laminitis, it can be beneficial to permanently limit grazing time, even after the initial introduction to pasture. In such cases, metabolic treatments (after consultation with a veterinarian) or pragmatic solutions like a grazing muzzle (grass catcher or muzzle) can help reduce grass intake. While this may look unusual, it still allows the horse social interaction and movement in the pasture without overeating. Another option is to implement temporary grazing restrictions , for example, by moving the horses to a separate paddock at midday when the fructan content in the grass is highest. Fructan typically accumulates in grasses during sunny weather and breaks down overnight – therefore, a horse prone to laminitis should be allowed to graze early in the morning rather than late in the afternoon. After frosty nights, sensitive horses should also only be allowed to graze in the afternoon, as frozen grass contains a high amount of sugar.

Despite all precautions: Don't forget the positive effects of grazing! Your horse will thank you for being able to roll, run, and graze with its companions. The fresh exercise keeps the joints supple, prevents tension, and even helps with shedding (muscle movement stimulates hair growth). 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 too, doesn't it?

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

Allergies and respiratory problems in spring

As beautiful as spring is, for some horses it also brings allergic reactions . Just like us humans, horses can react to pollen . When trees and grasses bloom, all sorts of pollen fill 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 refer to this condition as atopic dermatitis or environmental allergy , depending on whether the skin or the respiratory system is primarily affected. Common allergens in spring include pollen from trees such as birch or oak, later also grass and weed pollen, as well as mold spores (which thrive in warm, humid weather) and dust mites – the latter unfortunately also found in stables and hay. All these allergens, which trigger 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 specific issue – which usually peaks somewhat later in spring and summer – is sweet itch . This is an allergic reaction to insect bites, especially those from small biting midges (Culicoides) . In fact, insect allergy is the most common form of allergy in horses, and sweet itch is a well-known ailment for many horses, especially Icelandic horses and hardy breeds. As early as April/May, when the first insects become active, affected horses begin to rub themselves intensely – the mane, tailhead, and belly become raw due to the severe itching. Horseflies, black flies, and other biting insects can also exacerbate allergies. In addition to skin problems, insects in spring can also cause eye inflammation (from 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 the 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 often to improve dusty stable air. When mucking out the stable, the horse should ideally not be standing in thick dust. Hay can be moistened or steamed – especially for dust-sensitive horses – to reduce airborne particles. It often also helps to switch to dust-free bedding (such as dust-free shavings or pellet bedding) so that fewer irritants reach the airways. This is trickier for horses with pollen allergies , as pollen is everywhere. One could try keeping the horse in the stable during peak pollen season (usually mornings and evenings in dry weather) and turning it out to pasture during the day or after rain – as rain washes pollen out of the air. Nose nets or special pollen masks for horses are also available, which can filter out some of the allergens, although their effectiveness varies from horse to horse.

If your horse has an insect allergy , the best approach is to avoid contact as much as possible. A fly sheet or eczema rug made of tightly woven fabric can protect your horse from midges before it starts rubbing itself. These sheets 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 the nostrils from insects – many horses wear them without problems in spring and summer. Make sure the mask fits well and doesn't cause any chafing. You can also use insect repellents to keep flies and midges away. These come in sprays, gels, or even organic options like adding garlic to the feed (although its effectiveness is debated). It's important to apply these products regularly, especially at dusk and dawn when midges are most active.

Some horses develop hives (urticaria) in the spring – suddenly, welts appear all over their skin. This can be caused by allergies, but can also be triggered by temperature changes (cold-warm). In any case, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian if there are severe allergic reactions or persistent respiratory problems. Medications such as antihistamines or, in severe cases, even cortisone can be used to alleviate acute allergic reactions. Natural remedies (e.g., black cumin seed oil for respiratory problems, aloe vera for skin reactions) can also be tried in consultation with a veterinarian.

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

Behavior and energy levels: Spring fever in horses

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

In short: Our horses recharge their energy and zest for life . After the dreary winter, they experience a real energy boost, much like us humans, and feel the need to move around. So it's no wonder if your horse is a bit "playful" in the spring!

In addition, there are primal instincts that spring awakens. In the wild, a rich grazing season begins now – horses know this instinctively (you often observe them developing a real anticipation of lush grass when they see the first green blades). Furthermore, the mating season is approaching: mares are increasingly coming into heat, and stallions and geldings can also be influenced by the reproductive drive . Hierarchy displays and increased playfulness within the herd are now normal. So your horse has a lot of spring emotions to process!

For us riders and owners, this means: handling it with understanding and humor, but also with care . Be happy that your horse is feeling well – its exuberance shows that it's healthy and that spring has invigorated it. Nevertheless, you should pay particular attention to safety and training now. Horses that may have been worked less over the winter now have excess energy. It's advisable to let them release this energy in a controlled way before you place any heavy demands on them. For example, you could let your horse run free in the arena or lunge it lightly before the first ride so it can buck a bit and let off steam. Many "jumps" happen out of pure joy and the urge to move – if the horse has been allowed to let off steam, it's often much more focused under saddle. It's best not to undertake the first trail ride of the year alone . Grab a calm companion horse or walk alongside your horse for a while at first 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 being startled or overconfident . So it's best to play it safe until you're both back in your "outdoor rhythm".

Even in the riding arena, many people notice that their horse is full of energy. Instead of fighting it, incorporate more variety and mental stimulation into your training. Transitions, pole work, new exercises – the main thing is to keep the horse's mind occupied so that excess energy can be channeled. Consistency is key: despite your horse's enthusiasm, don't just let it trot off whenever it wants or buck without consequences. Obedience exercises and clear rules provide the horse with structure and remind it of its manners. Many horses quickly regain their work ethic with consistent, varied training, even if they initially act foolish. Remember to gradually increase your training after a winter break – not only the mind, but also the muscles need to readjust to the full workload.

A word about mares in heat : In spring, many mares experience a more pronounced estrous cycle, which can sometimes explain moody or distracted behavior. Keep an eye on whether your mare might be in heat if she's unusually ticklish on her belly, affectionate towards geldings, or fussy when ridden. Sometimes understanding is all it takes (and on particularly intense days, slightly lighter work). In some cases, chasteberry or other supplements can alleviate the heat-related behavior. Spring can also awaken hormones in geldings and stallions – geldings sometimes briefly remember they're males, and stallions, of course, have minds of their own during the breeding season. In such cases , calm, firm handling is required, possibly separating them from mares if necessary, and simply giving them time – after a few weeks, things usually return to normal.

In short: Enjoy a lively horse in spring! Its spirits are awakened. With a little management – ​​plenty of exercise, fresh air, and patient training – this excess energy will quickly become 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've compiled the most important practical tips for you. This will help you optimally prepare your horse for the spring months and easily master typical challenges:

• Gradual introduction to grazing : Plan a detailed pasture acclimatization schedule. Start with just a few minutes of grass per day and slowly increase grazing time over several weeks. Feed hay before grazing so your horse doesn't eat too much grass too quickly. This effectively prevents digestive problems and laminitis.
  

  

• Support your horse's shedding process : Equip yourself with a curry comb, body brush, and perhaps a curry comb or grooming glove – daily, vigorous grooming will help your horse shed its winter coat. Pay attention to 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 will appreciate a little extra warmth on cold nights when their coats are already thinning.

  

• Adjusting the diet : Check the amount of concentrated feed – does your horse really need the same energy intake as in winter, now that the grass is becoming more nutritious? You can probably reduce starch and sugar to prevent weight gain. It's important, however, that enough roughage remains available: it's better to leave some hay than to let your horse go hungry. Make sure a mineral block is always accessible to cover micronutrient needs. If your horse is prone to diarrhea, digestive 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. Changing weather can lead to problems such as thrush (in muddy ground) or dry, cracked hooves (during sudden warm spells). Treat the hooves with a suitable hoof care product as needed (oiling in wet conditions, moisturizing in dry conditions). Check pasture fences before the season begins and repair any damaged sections – otherwise, your horse's fresh spring energy could tempt them to wander off on unwanted excursions. Also, ensure that water troughs and watering points are clean; algae thrive in the first warm days.
  

  

• Allergy prevention : If you know your horse's allergies, start taking preventative measures early. For horses with sweet itch: Put on a blanket and face mask in good time, before the first midges appear. Keep an itch-relieving ointment (e.g., zinc oxide ointment, a 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 – remove old hay bales that could mold and choose fresh, good-quality hay. Ventilate frequently, especially when mucking out, and consider steaming the hay. Don't forget vaccinations : Many vaccination schedules include boosters in the spring – check the horse's passport to see if any are due, in order to also 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 movements. This will keep your horse focused on you. If it's feeling particularly exuberant, don't hesitate to lunge it briefly before mounting. Safety comes first, and there's nothing wrong with letting your horse burn off some energy without a rider first. Organize group rides with other riders; many horses feel safer in a group, and you'll have support if it does bolt. Remember your own fitness, too – gradually build up your stamina after the winter break, then you can both truly enjoy spring with plenty of exercise.

These tips will help you and your horse get through the spring season well-prepared . The key is finding the right balance between caution and enjoyment: allow your horse to experience the joys of spring, but always keep a watchful eye on its health.

Reflection questions for horse owners

Finally, a few questions to reflect on: Take a moment to honestly assess how you and your horse are positioned this spring. These questions will help you determine if there's room for improvement or if you're already on the right track.

1. Feeding plan – Have I adapted my horse's feeding plan to the spring conditions? (e.g., gradual introduction to grazing , adjustment of the amount of concentrated feed, mineral supply ensured)
2. Shedding support – How can I currently help my horse through shedding season? Do I use regular grooming and possibly feed supplements to make the process easier for him?
3. Pasture management – ​​Do I have a concrete plan for introducing my horse to pasture and for the grazing period? Am I aware of the risks (colic, laminitis) and am I doing enough to prevent them (gradual increase, feeding hay beforehand, observing my horse for signs of intolerance)?
4. Allergies & Respiratory System – Am I prepared in case my horse has an allergic reaction? What measures do I have in place in case of spring allergies (e.g., fly protection, low-dust management, veterinary examination for chronic coughing)?
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 mental stimulation to keep it balanced? Am I mentally prepared to deal calmly and consistently with potential "spring bucks"?
6. Overall management – ​​Are there any other spring-related topics I should be aware of? (For example, hoof care, vaccination and deworming intervals, pasture management, equipment check – does the saddle still fit once the winter coat is gone and the muscles have changed?)

Take your time to answer these questions honestly. Spring is a transitional season where you can do many things right – but also quite a few things 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 most wonderful result is a happy, radiant horse, full of joie de vivre, ready to welcome the warmer months with you. With that in mind: Enjoy spring and take good care of yourselves – it's a time of renewal and blossoming , for both humans and animals!

Zeolite as a 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 multiple areas:

1. Support during shedding

• The shedding of fur 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 products, and excess acids .
• This allows the body to utilize nutrients more effectively, which has a positive effect on skin, coat and the immune system .

2. Gut health & feeding adjustments.

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

• Zeolite can help regulate acidity in the intestines , bind pollutants 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 to relieve the liver and kidneys .
• Regular administration can help to keep metabolism stable and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases.

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

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

• Zeolite can help bind toxins and allergy-triggering substances in the intestine , thereby relieving the body and keeping the immune system strong.
• Some horse owners report positive effects on allergic reactions such as summer eczema and respiratory irritation .

5. More energy & well-being through detoxification

The changing of the seasons can make horses tired or lethargic.

• Regular intake of zeolite supports the detoxification of the body , which can lead to increased vitality and performance .
• At the same time, it can help 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: Ensure sufficient water is available so that the zeolite can work optimally.

In conclusion, zeolite can naturally support horses in the spring – from shedding and pasture changes to strengthening their metabolism and immune system. A smart supplement for a healthy and energetic spring season!

In conclusion: Go with nature – love life & value renewal

Spring is a time of new beginnings, renewal, and change – for nature as well as for our horses. Those who live in harmony 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 opportunities for strengthening and development.

Challenge accepted! – The savvy horse owner anticipates the challenges of spring, takes timely precautions , and ensures a healthy adjustment for their horse. Whether through proactive pasture management , targeted support during the shedding season , 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 gotten quite long – here's a summary for quick readers:

Summary: Challenges for horses in spring

Spring brings a mixture 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 shedding of the winter coat puts a heavy strain on the metabolism and can be stressful for older or weaker horses.
• Daily grooming and a tailored 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 .

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

3. Grazing – Risks and Benefits

• The transition to pasture must be gradual (gradual introduction over several weeks).
• A sudden change can lead to colic, diarrhea, or laminitis .
• Pasture hygiene is important: check fences, remove poisonous plants, clean watering 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 suffering from 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 affect the hormonal balance and often lead to more energy and enjoyment of play.
• Safety in training: Gradually accustom horses to the season, if necessary let them tire themselves out on the lunge line.
• Harmony instead of stress: Clear rules and varied training help to make the best possible use of spring.

Practical tips for horse owners

✅ Gradually increase grazing time , starting with 15 minutes per day
✅ Support shedding with care and minerals
✅ Monitor grazing and gradually adjust 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 providing my horse with optimal support during its shedding season ?
3. Am I planning the introduction of grazing gradually and in a controlled manner?
4. Am I prepared for potential allergies and breathing problems ?
5. Do I take my horse's increasing energy levels into account during training?

With the right balance of caution and enjoyment, spring will be a healthy and happy time of year for your horse!

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