How Do Horses Show Discomfort?
Most horses suffer quietly. Mild discomfort, stomach or tooth pain often go unnoticed at first. That’s why it’s all the more important to always observe your horse closely. Small changes can be the first signs that something is wrong. If there are behavioral changes, riding problems, or even refusal to eat, all alarm bells should go off and you should investigate the cause.
But don’t panic: horses can also just have a bad day! It’s important to always handle your horse attentively. Observe your favorite in calm moments and during training and weigh whether everything is okay or if you should intervene.
Annual Check-ups
There are some examinations you should carry out regularly. Vaccinations, such as tetanus or influenza, should be refreshed regularly. You should also schedule an appointment with the equine dentist once a year. Healthy teeth are essential for food intake and digestion. Additionally, deworming should be done twice a year to protect them from harmful parasites.
The Little Helpers Around Horse Health
Besides the annual check-ups and good self-observation, you can support your horse individually through a balanced diet. This includes sufficient roughage, such as hay and grass, as well as a good mineral feed. The Mineralfutter Reformin Plus from Höveler or the Stiefel Mineral provide a good foundation for this.
Skin, Coat & Hoof
Supplements like linseed oil or hemp oil can promote skin elasticity and a shiny coat. Biotin and zinc can strengthen hair roots and hoof horn, and brewer’s yeast can positively influence skin health. Especially during coat changes, you can support your horse from the inside with a good supplement. Under the tab Coat, Skin & Hoof you’ll find a wide selection. It’s important to inform yourself well beforehand about which supplements can be fed without concern and which should be discussed with a vet first. Zinc and copper, for example, can also be overdosed, which could have long-term negative effects on your four-legged friend.
Organs & Metabolism
Metabolism is responsible for converting feed into energy and supplying the body with all vital substances. The metabolism liquid Vitalquelle from NURA can positively influence the liver and metabolism through a balanced composition of milk thistle and rice germ oil. The oils are rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. The liquid can become a valuable companion to support your horse from the inside, especially during more demanding times.
Respiratory Tract & Immune System
Especially in winter, it can quickly happen that your favorite starts coughing. Quick action is needed here to prevent mucus and cough from settling.
Thyme, fennel, and anise can support the respiratory tract. The respiratory liquid Frischluft from NURA combines these herbs in extracts and can easily be added as a liquid to the feed. It can be fed continuously or in courses to relieve the respiratory tract.
Additionally, rose hips, plantain, or other immune cures can strengthen the immune system and contribute to overall well-being. Feel free to browse the Respiratory Tract & Immune System tab to see if you can do something good for your horse.
Digestive System
Gut health is the basis for good metabolism. Brewer’s yeast can supply the necessary B vitamins and support the gut flora. Psyllium husks can bind sand and thus relieve the gut. Here too, feeding supplements can positively influence your horse. However, with more severe symptoms of stomach or intestinal upset, you should definitely consult a vet and act quickly.
Nerve Strength
Some horses are naturally a bit more nervous and get unsettled more easily. NURA Kopfklar can be the perfect companion in this case. The liquid provides targeted nutrients that can stabilize the nervous system and contribute to inner balance.
Joints & Mobility
With intense strain or in older horses, it can be useful to strengthen your horse with vitamins and minerals that can promote more mobility and joy of life. The formula of NURA Beweglichkeit can specifically support joints, tendons, and connective tissue.
Checklist
It’s important not to ignore symptoms and to definitely consult a vet if they are severe or last a long time. A deficiency in vitamins, trace elements, or minerals can be well detected through a blood test, and deficits can be specifically supplemented. With some helpers, it’s possible to support your horse’s health individually. We have put together a small checklist for you that covers the basics of horse health. Of course, horse health is a very special and individual area, and in case of doubt, you should always seek the opinion of a vet.
