As the chill of winter fades and the warmth of spring arrives, horse owners face a fresh set of challenges. Spring horse care demands special attention, from shedding winter coats to managing muddy paddocks and preparing for fly season. Tackling these issues early ensures your horse stays healthy, comfortable, and ready for the months ahead.

Here’s how you can successfully manage the top spring horse care challenges:

  1. Managing Heavy Shedding in Spring

    2. Spring means horse shedding season is in full swing. As your horse loses its winter coat, shedding tools become your best friend. Regular grooming not only removes loose hair but also promotes skin health and the natural distribution of oils. Read more on How to Shed Out Your Horse’s Winter Coat.

    Shedding Spray

    Pro Tips for Shedding Season:


    Browse Horse Grooming Supplies to stock up for shedding season.

  2. Battling Mud Season: Protecting Hooves and Skin

    3. Melting snow and spring rains create muddy conditions that can lead to hoof and skin issues like thrush and scratches.

    Mud Control

    Mud Management Tips:


    Explore Horse Hoof Care Products to protect your horse this spring.

  3. Early Fly Season Preparation

    4. Don’t wait for flies to become a problem. Spring is the time to prepare for fly season before pests overwhelm your barn and pasture.

    Fly Sheet

    Fly Season Essentials:


    Prepare now with Fly Control Products for your horse AND barn.

  4. Tack and Blanket Cleaning for Spring

    5. Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home; it’s critical for your horse gear, too.

    Cleaning Tack

    Gear Care Checklist:


    Get started with Horse Blanket Care Supplies and Tack Cleaning Products

  5. Deep Spring Cleaning for Your Barn

    6. A clean barn isn't just about appearances… it directly impacts your horse’s health. Spring barn cleaning is the perfect way to refresh your environment after a long, closed-up winter.

    Spring Barn Cleaning Checklist:

    • Air it out: Open doors and windows to ventilate and freshen the air.

    • Remove and scrub: Pull out buckets, feeders, mats, and give them a thorough scrubbing and disinfecting. Let them dry in the sun.

    • Dust and de-cobweb: Ceilings, walls, doors, and light fixtures should be dusted and cleared of cobwebs.

    • Inspect and repair: Check for damaged hardware and structures; replace or fix as needed.

    • Scrub floors:
      • For cement floors, scrub thoroughly and allow to dry before returning mats.
      • For dirt, clay, or drainage floors, rake, lime, and allow the area to dry completely; then add new material to level any low spots.

    • Refresh hay storage: Move good hay, clean and sweep the area, and clear old hay from pallet slats if used.

    • Tidy the tack room: Empty the room, clean it thoroughly, and inspect the tack before returning it, noting any items that need repair.

    • Clean the feed room: Sweep, scrub storage bins and scoops, and look for signs of rodent infestation.

    • Fire safety check: Inspect fire extinguishers and ensure they are fully charged and accessible.

    Keeping the barn clean reduces the risk of respiratory issues, pest infestations, and accidents, and gives your barn a fresh, welcoming start to the season.

  6. Springtime Health Checks and Feeding Adjustments

    7. A new season often requires a refresh of your horse's health and diet plans.

    Spring Health Tips:

    • Schedule spring vaccinations and deworming.
    • Reevaluate feed: Pastures rich in fresh grass may reduce the need for certain supplements.
    • Monitor your horse’s weight and adjust feed based on increasing exercise levels.

    Support your horse’s health with essentials from Horse Health Products.

Get Ready for a Healthier, Happier Spring

Spring horse care can feel overwhelming, but with the right plan and tools, you can set your horse up for success. Start grooming early, manage mud smartly, prepare for flies ahead of time, refresh your gear, clean your barn thoroughly, and prioritize spring health checks.