Coat Change in Horses: What’s Happening Now and How to Support Their Skin

The coat change in horses is a completely natural process, usually occurring in spring and autumn. During this time, many horses shed a lot of hair. What many owners don’t realize is that it’s not just the coat that’s affected—the skin is also heavily stressed and needs extra care.

Typical Symptoms During Coat Change in Horses

• Heavy shedding over several weeks
• Dry or flaky skin
• Frequent scratching or restlessness
• Sensitive, sometimes reddened skin areas
• Dull coat instead of shiny
• Loose undercoat stuck in the coat

Because the skin is particularly sensitive during this phase, early care is important to prevent skin problems.

Causes of Coat Change in Horses: Why the Skin Is Sensitive

During the coat change, a horse’s body adjusts to the new season. More daylight and warmer temperatures signal the skin to shed old hair while producing new hair. This is hard work for the skin.

The natural balance of the skin can easily be disrupted.

Common Causes of Skin Problems During Coat Change

• Skin works overtime and loses moisture more quickly
• The protective skin barrier becomes more sensitive as new hairs constantly grow in
• Loose hairs can irritate the skin if they aren’t removed
• Dry stable air or weather changes increase dryness and itching
• Higher nutrient requirements to grow healthy new hair

As a result, many horses show signs of itching, dry skin, or mild irritation during this period.

Treating Coat Change in Horses: Calm and Support the Skin

Brushing alone is often not enough during coat change. The skin now needs care that soothes, hydrates, and protects without causing additional irritation.

Hydrating and calming products like Doderm Hydro RepairGel are specially designed to support stressed skin. The antibodies from colostrum help soothe the skin and strengthen its natural balance.

Step-by-Step Application

1. Gently part the coat
   Separate the hair so the skin is visible.
2. Clean the area carefully
   Remove loose hairs or dirt gently—do not rub harshly.
3. Apply a thin layer of gel
   Place a small amount of Doderm Hydro RepairGel directly on the skin.
4. Let it absorb
   Do not massage aggressively. The gel spreads and absorbs on its own.
5. Use regularly
   Apply once or twice daily as needed.
6. Continue throughout the shedding period
   Consistent care ensures long-term skin support.

Benefits of Doderm Hydro RepairGel

• Soothes irritated and itchy skin
• Provides intensive hydration
• Supports the skin’s natural function
• Colostrum antibodies aid skin regeneration
• Well-tolerated, even on sensitive skin
• Easy to integrate into daily care

This approach allows you to manage coat change in horses without putting additional stress on the skin.

Tips & Prevention: Reduce Stress During Coat Change and Protect the Skin

A few simple measures can make the coat change easier for your horse:

• Brush gently every day
  Removes loose hair and prevents skin irritation
• Avoid over-bathing
  Bathe only when necessary to prevent drying out the skin
• Use mild care products
  Avoid strongly scented or harsh shampoos
• Provide balanced nutrition
  Supports skin and coat from the inside
• Keep the stable clean
  Less dust reduces additional irritation
• Check the skin regularly
  Spot early changes and treat them promptly

Extra Tip:
If your horse scratches a lot, start supportive care early rather than waiting—this helps prevent bigger skin problems.

Natural Support During Coat Change in Horses: Keep Skin Healthy Through the Season

Coat change is a normal part of a horse’s life but can put significant stress on both skin and hair. Targeted care during this time helps keep the skin healthy and prevents discomfort.

Doderm Hydro RepairGel offers natural support for horse skin problems by hydrating, soothing, and protecting the skin throughout the shedding season.

Discover how to care for your horse’s skin now