What Can I Use to Get Rid of My Horse's Mane Dandruff?

A horse's mane is a window into its health, giving you warning signs when something is wrong. Fortunately, a wide range of products are available to restore the horse's main to top condition. Never underestimate the benefit of professional advice, however. Talk with your vet to ensure that you are choosing the proper product for the job.

  1. Professional Consultation

    • A diagnosis is important to ensure that your horse is healthy. There are some causes of scalp dryness that only your vet can diagnose and treat. For example, sweet itch is an allergic condition that a vet can diagnose and treat with medication. The vet should be your first stop whenever you notice skin irritation on your horse. With his expert advice, you can plan the best care routine for your horse's mane.

    Shelter

    • Harsh weather can lead to irritated skin, itching and flaking on both humans and horses. Moving your horse indoors during windy, cold or extremely hot days can help keep its mane healthy. Harsh weather conditions dry out the skin, leading to dandruff. Brush your horse's hair with a soft-bristled brush to remove any of the existing flakes and to spread natural, moisturizing oils over the skin.

    Food

    • A horse's skin condition can change radically based on its diet. If your horse isn't getting enough fat in its diet, it may have dry skin. Throw some sunflower seeds into your horse's meal to increase the amount of fat it consumes. Fatty oils such as corn oil can help improve the condition of the skin as well. If the problem persists, visit your vet and ask about a diet supplement to help fight the irritating flakes.

    Shampoo

    • A horse's hair and skin require moisture just as yours does. A moisturizing shampoo and a relaxing massage can soften the skin, improve the health of the hair and increase the circulation to the scalp. Consult your veterinarian before using a shampoo to determine the best option for your horse's needs. The dry skin could be caused by a fungal problem that requires a medicated topical treatment prescribed by a professional.