Mites in horses: to shave or not to shave the socks?
The hair on the legs, also known as socks or feathers, has a protective function. The socks of the horse prevent the skin from becoming wet and dirty. If you take a good look at your horse's socks, you will see that the hair near the skin is dry and clean, and that the skin is dry. The skin's natural oils ensure that moisture and dirt cannot penetrate to the skin. So even if the socks appear wet and dirty, there is a good chance that the skin is still dry.
Health
Mites
6 May '22 • 1 min reading time
But what to do about mites?
Mites cause wounds and scabby spots. These spots become irritated and chafe. Due to this irritation, horses start biting their socks, which makes the wounds larger. These moist areas on the skin begin to fester and become the ideal breeding ground for mites. A vicious circle that is difficult to break without drastic intervention. In the case of mites/scabs/wounds, it is advisable to shave (part of) the socks. This way, air can reach the area, and wounds can heal better. The skin can also be treated more effectively, allowing you to get rid of a mite infestation more quickly. However, this is part of a comprehensive approach to mites, and other measures should still be applied to effectively treat mites, such as limiting sugars and an internal treatment with a 100% herbal supplement against mites.
Our advice: leave the socks on, but shave as soon as there are wounds
If horses do not have mites, do not suffer from mud fever or other skin problems on their legs, then leave the socks on, as this provides natural protection against moisture and dirt. You can also see the socks as a natural protector against knocks. If your horse does have skin problems on its legs, then shave the socks (partially). Often, it is sufficient to shave only the affected areas so that air can reach them and you can treat the wounds (for example, with a spray based on silicon dioxide). However, in cases of severe mite infestation, it is advisable to shave the entire socks. It may not be the prettiest option, but it is the most practical and comfortable for your horse, especially since mite eggs can still hatch a year later. Therefore, it is better to be very rigorous once than to struggle every year.
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