Home remedies for horses: Natural solutions for health and care

Home remedies for horses: Natural solutions for health and care

Health
Reading time: 10 minutes

Whether for minor ailments or additional care - home remedies offer simple and natural ways to do something good for your horse. They can help with coughs, skin problems, digestive complaints or support the shedding process and are often readily available. In this article, you will find out which home remedies really work, how to use them correctly and what you should look out for to keep your horse healthy and happy.

Contents

What are home remedies for horses?

Home remedies are proven, natural methods that are used in horse health to support various ailments. They complement veterinary medicine and can be used in a variety of ways:

Areas of application of home remedies in horse health:

  • Digestive problems and gastrointestinal health: Support for complaints such as diarrhea, watery stools, flatulence, stomach ulcers or colic.
  • Respiratory diseases: Relief from coughs, mucus production, irritated larynx or colds.
  • Skin and coat problems: Treatment of skin infections, eczema, sweet itch, dandruff or coat changes.
  • Hooves and legs: Support for thrush, leg swelling, tarnished legs or hoof abscesses.
  • Eyes and ears: Care for conjunctivitis or watery eyes.
  • Parasite defense: protection against flies, grass mites, black flies or insect bites.
  • General health: strengthens the immune system, supports detoxification, fever or stress.

Important notes:

  • Individual tolerance: Not every home remedy is suitable for every horse. For example, horses react very sensitively to even the smallest amounts of alcohol, so malt beer should not be given.
  • Combination with medication: Some home remedies can influence the effect of medication. For example, mucilage from marshmallow root can impair the absorption of medication.
  • Veterinary consultation: A veterinarian should always be consulted before using household remedies to avoid interactions or undesirable effects

Home remedies can be a valuable addition to horse care, but should be used with caution and in consultation with specialists.

Home remedies for digestive problems and gastrointestinal health

Digestion is a central issue in equine health. horse healthbecause the sensitive digestive system of horses reacts quickly to stress, changes in feed or other external influences. Common problems such as watery stools, diarrhoea or colic can not only be unpleasant for the horse, but can also have serious consequences. Fortunately, there are numerous home remedies that offer gentle help. In this section, you will find out which remedies help with specific digestive problems, how they work and how they are dosed.

Reference box
The information provided on home remedies for digestive problems and gastrointestinal health in horses is based on current recommendations and experience in horse keeping. However, dosages and applications may vary depending on the individual horse. It is therefore advisable to consult a veterinarian or feeding expert before using home remedies to ensure the best and safest treatment for your horse.
Home remedy Application for Dosage/feeding recommendation Notes
Aloe vera juice Stomach ulcer, stomach problems 50-100 ml daily, mix into the feed Soothes the stomach lining; seek veterinary advice before use.
Linseed mucilage Stomach ulcer, stomach problems, intestinal protection, diarrhea, watery stool Pour hot water over 50-100 g linseed, leave to swell, cool and mix into the feed Forms a protective layer of mucilage; unswollen linseed can be toxic.
Camomile tea Stomach ulcer, stomach problems, intestinal protection, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain Add 1-2 cups of cooled tea to drinking water or food Anti-inflammatory and calming; do not overdose.
Licorice root Stomach ulcer Prepare 5-10 g of dried root as a tea, cool and add to food Promotes mucus production; do not use for longer than 4-6 weeks without veterinary advice.
Marshmallow root Stomach ulcer Prepare 10-20 g of dried root as a tea, cool and add to food Mucilage can impair the absorption of medication; do not administer at the same time.
Mash Stomach problems, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation Cooked mash made from oats, wheat bran and linseed, feed lukewarm Promotes digestion and soothes the stomach; do not feed too frequently to avoid nutrient imbalances.
Psyllium husks Intestinal cleansing, diarrhea, watery stools, constipation 10-20 g per day, soak in water and feed swollen Bind sand and regulate intestinal activity; ensure sufficient water intake.
Apple cider vinegar Fecal Water Mix 50 ml daily into the drinking water Supports the intestinal flora; do not use if you have a sensitive stomach or hyperacidity.
Carrot porridge Fecal water, diarrhea 1-2 carrots per meal, cook, puree and mix with water Pectins protect the intestinal mucosa and bind toxins; carrots must be cooked.
Healing clay Fecal water, diarrhea Mix 20 g daily into moist feed Binds excess fluid and toxins in the intestines; pay attention to quality and purity.

Home remedies for respiratory diseases and mucus removal in horses

Respiratory diseases are among the most common health challenges in horses. Symptoms such as dry cough, mucus accumulation, irritated larynx, rhinitis and nasal discharge can have a significant impact on the animal's well-being and performance. In addition to veterinary treatment, certain home remedies can help to relieve the respiratory tract and promote the healing process. This section presents various home remedies that can be used for specific respiratory problems, including how they work and recommendations for use.

Reference box
Important notes:

Veterinary consultation: A veterinarian should always be consulted for respiratory diseases to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Individual tolerance: Not all horses react in the same way to certain home remedies. Observe your horse closely and discontinue the remedy if negative reactions occur.

Dosage: The dosages given are general guidelines. The exact amount should be adjusted individually and discussed with a specialist.

Quality of the remedies: Only use high-quality products that are suitable for horses in order to avoid undesirable side effects.

These home remedies should always be used in consultation with a vet to ensure the health and well-being of the horse.
Home remedy Application for Dosage/feeding recommendation Notes
Eucalyptus oil Mucus solution, support of the respiratory tract Allow a few drops to evaporate in hot water Do not apply directly to mucous membranes; irritating to sensitive horses
Thyme tea Cough, expectoration Pour 1-2 cups of cooled tea over the food Expectorant and anti-inflammatory
Camomile (inhalation) Irritated larynx, nasal discharge, rhinitis Add a few handfuls of chamomile to hot water and inhale Soothes and relieves inflammation
Sage Cough, irritated larynx Add 1-2 cups of tea to food or drinking water Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
Honey Irritated larynx, cough Mix 1-2 tablespoons daily into the food Soothes the throat, has an antimicrobial effect
Icelandic moss Dry cough, mucus solution Prepare 10-20 g as tea and add to the feed Protects mucous membranes
Black cumin oil General respiratory diseases Mix 10-20 ml daily into the feed Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting
Linseed (cooked) Cough, irritated larynx, loosening of phlegm Soak 50 g in hot water and add to the food Soothing for the respiratory tract
Garlic Colds, general respiratory diseases Mix 10-20 g daily into the feed Antibacterial; dose carefully
Peppermint (inhalation) Runny nose, nasal discharge Vaporize a handful of peppermint in hot water Refreshing, expectorant

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Home remedies for skin and coat problems in horses

Your horse's skin and coat are not only a reflection of its health, but are also often susceptible to various problems. From skin infections such as moulting or fungus to irritations caused by mites and hair lice to chronic complaints such as sweet itch or hives - skin and coat problems can have a major impact on your horse's everyday life. You can also fall back on tried and tested home remedies during the change of coat or to maintain a shiny mane and healthy coat.

In this section you will find out which home remedies are available for specific complaints such as maukemites, itching, rash, skin fungus or dandruff. You will also get tips on how you can support your horse's coat change with simple remedies and ensure a shiny coat and a beautiful mane. Whether acute problems such as a scruffy tail or long-term care - here you will find practical home remedies for the most common skin and coat problems in horses.

Important notes:

  • Individual tolerance: Not every home remedy is suitable for every horse. For example, horses react very sensitively to even the smallest amounts of alcohol; malt beer should therefore not be given.
  • Combination with medication: Some home remedies can influence the effect of medication. For example, mucilage from marshmallow root can impair the absorption of medication.
  • Veterinary consultation: A veterinarian should always be consulted before using home remedies to avoid interactions or undesirable effects.

Home remedies can be a valuable addition to horse care, but should be used with caution and in consultation with specialists.

Skin infections and irritations

In this section, you will find out which home remedies are effective against specific complaints such as moulting, mites, itching, rash, skin fungus or dandruff.

Home remedy Skin problem Application Notes
Zinc ointment Mud fever Apply thinly to the affected area Protects the skin and promotes healing
Coconut oil Sweet Itch Apply externally to the affected areas Cares for the skin and relieves itching
Apple cider vinegar Skin fungus Dilute 1:1 with water and apply to the affected areas Has antifungal properties
Camomile tea Itching Apply cooled to the affected areas Has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect
Tea tree oil Shed Apply diluted with a carrier oil Antiseptic properties; use only diluted
Aloe vera gel Tail scrubbing Apply directly to the irritated areas Cools and promotes healing
Healing clay Rasp Apply as a paste and allow to dry Anti-inflammatory and promotes healing

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Coat care and coat change

Caring for your horse's coat and mane is crucial for its health and well-being. A shiny coat and a strong mane are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also indicators of a balanced diet and effective care. Below you will find proven home remedies and tips to support the coat change and promote your horse's hair splendor:

Home remedy Application Effect Notes
Linseed Mix 50-100 g daily into the feed Rich in omega-3 fatty acids; promotes healthy skin and coat Allow linseed to soak before feeding
Brewer's yeast Mix 20-30 g daily into the feed Contains B vitamins and biotin; supports coat shine and hoof quality Look for high-quality brewer's yeast without additives
Black cumin oil Add 1-2 tablespoons daily to the food Supports the immune system and can alleviate skin problems Slow acclimatization of the horse to the taste recommended
Apple cider vinegar Mix 50 ml daily into drinking water or food Boosts the metabolism and can make the coat shine Do not use if you have a sensitive stomach
Herbal mixtures (e.g. nettle, milk thistle) Add dried herbs to the feed Detoxifies and promotes metabolism; supports the change of coat Dose herbs in consultation with the vet
Coconut oil Apply externally to mane and tail Cares for the hair and makes combing easier Use sparingly to avoid greasiness
Homemade mane spray (e.g. made from water and baby oil) Spray on mane and tail Makes detangling easier and adds shine Shake well before use

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Home remedies for hoof problems

Hoof health is essential for horses as it affects their overall movement and quality of life. Problems such as thrush, hoof abscesses or lameness can not only be painful, but also have long-term consequences if they are not treated in time. In addition to veterinary measures, tried and tested home remedies can provide gentle and supportive help. In the following overview, you can find out which natural remedies help with hoof problems, how they are used and what effect they have.

Home remedy Hoof problem Application Explanation
Vinegar-water mixture Beam rot Dilute 1:1 with water and spray daily on the jet The mixture has a disinfectant effect and can help to regenerate the damaged beam. It also removes dead tissue.
Betadine solution Hoof abscess Apply to the cleaned area, then cover Betadine is antiseptic and promotes healing by killing bacteria. Ideal for keeping the abscess clean.
Warm linseed poultice Horse lame (with hoof problems) Mix linseed with hot water to form a paste, apply, cover The warmth and mucilage of the linseed relieve pain and promote blood circulation, which can reduce inflammation.
Arnica ointment Overleg Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2-3 times a day Arnica promotes blood circulation and has an anti-inflammatory effect. It helps to reduce swelling and hardening.

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Home remedies for injuries

Injuries are one of the most common health problems in horses and can range from minor scratches to serious wounds. Quick and careful initial treatment is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. In addition to veterinary measures, certain home remedies can support healing and alleviate discomfort. In the following overview, we will show you which tried-and-tested home remedies can be used for typical injuries, how they work and how to apply them correctly.

Home remedy Problem Application Explanation
Movement Tanned legs Regular, light exercise such as guided walking Promotes blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which reduces swelling.
Sprue dressings with marigold tea Injury (phlegmon) Add 200g of marigold flowers to 10 liters of boiling water and leave to infuse until the tea has cooled to approx. 30°C. Then soak the bandage in the tea and apply to the affected leg. Ringelblume wirkt antiseptisch und entzündungshemmend, unterstützt die Heilung des Gewebes. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Camomile tea Udder inflammation Pour hot water over the chamomile flowers, leave to cool and gently wash the udder. Kamille hat entzündungshemmende und beruhigende Eigenschaften, die bei Euterentzündungen lindernd wirken können. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

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Note: These home remedies can have a supportive effect, but are not a substitute for consulting a vet. Professional veterinary help should always be sought for acute or severe symptoms.

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Home remedies to ward off parasites in horses

Parasites such as flies, grass mites, deer flies and black flies can have a significant impact on the well-being of horses. Especially in the warmer months, these little pests can become a nuisance and cause not only itching but also skin irritation and infections. While commercially available products often contain chemical ingredients, natural home remedies offer a gentle and environmentally friendly alternative.

Which home remedies can help to repel flies and other parasites, how are they used and what effects do they have? When it comes to homemade fly spray, coconut oil against lice or tea tree oil against black flies - you will find practical tips here to give your horse relief.

Homemade fly spray

Flies and other insects can be a considerable nuisance for horses, especially in the warmer months. A homemade fly spray made from natural ingredients offers an environmentally friendly and skin-friendly alternative to commercial products.

Recipe for homemade fly spray:

Ingredients:

  • 400 ml strong black or green tea
  • 50 ml apple cider vinegar
  • 50 ml household vinegar
  • A few cloves of garlic
  • A few dried cloves
  • A dash of olive oil
  • One spray bottle

Preparation:

  1. Prepare the tea: Prepare 400 ml of strong black or green tea and leave to cool completely.
  2. Add vinegar: Mix 50 ml apple cider vinegar and 50 ml household vinegar to the cooled tea.
  3. Add the garlic and cloves: Add some crushed garlic cloves and dried cloves to the mixture.
  4. Add olive oil: Add a dash of olive oil to condition the horse's skin and improve the adhesion of the spray.
  5. Mix and fill: Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake well before each use.

Application:

  • Spray the fly spray generously onto your horse's coat before riding or grazing.
  • Avoid sensitive areas such as eyes and nostrils.
  • Repeat the application as required, especially after heavy sweating or rain.

Mode of action:

  • Black/green tea: Reduces the body odor of the horse, which attracts flies.
  • Apple cider vinegar and household vinegar: Have a repellent effect on insects.
  • Garlic: Its sulphurous smell masks the horse's own odor and has a deterrent effect on flies.
  • Dried cloves: Enhance the repellent effect with their intense fragrance.
  • Olive oil: Nourishes the skin and ensures that the spray adheres better to the coat.

Notes:

  • Test the spray on a small area of skin before large-scale application to ensure that your horse does not have an allergic reaction.
  • Store the spray in a cool, dark place and use it within a few weeks.
  • In the case of heavy insect infestation, it may be useful to combine the spray with other protective measures such as fly blankets or masks.

With this homemade fly spray, you can protect your horse from annoying insects in a natural way and protect the skin at the same time.

Home remedy for grass mites on horses

Grass mites in horses, especially the larvae of the autumn grass mite(Neotrombicula autumnalis), can cause considerable itching, skin irritation and discomfort for horses. These parasites are particularly prevalent in late summer and fall when horses are grazing on pastures with heavy grass mite infestations. In addition to veterinary treatments, home remedies for grass mites offer a natural way of alleviating the symptoms and containing the infestation.

What home remedies can help your horse with grass mites and how do you use them? Discover effective natural solutions - from vinegar and water mixtures to coconut oil and black cumin oil.

Home remedy Application Mode of action
Vinegar-water mixture Mix apple cider vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Carefully wash affected areas of skin or apply with a soft cloth. Changes the pH value of the skin and makes it less attractive to grass mites. Has a mild disinfectant effect.
Curd soap Make a mild curd soap solution and clean the affected areas. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Removes dirt and dead skin cells that attract grass mites and soothes the skin.
Coconut oil Apply organic, cold-pressed coconut oil to the affected areas of skin and massage in gently. Use daily. Contains lauric acid, which repels grass mites. Cares for the skin and relieves itching.
Black cumin oil Carefully apply black cumin oil to the affected areas of skin. Use regularly for 2-3 weeks. Soothes the skin with its anti-inflammatory properties and relieves itching.
Hygiene measures Keep the stable and pasture clean. Change the bedding regularly and clean the grooming equipment and blankets thoroughly. Reduces the infestation of grass mites and supports the effect of home remedies.

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Natural home remedies for black flies, deer flies and insect bites on horses

Horses are often affected by insects such as black flies, deer flies and other biting pests during the warmer months. These can not only cause discomfort, but can also lead to skin irritation and allergic reactions. Fortunately, there are various home remedies that first aid to ward off these insects and alleviate the symptoms of their bites.

1. home remedy for black flies on horses

Coconut oil:

  • Application: Apply organic, cold-pressed coconut oil to the areas of your horse's skin that are at risk.
  • Mode of action: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which acts as a natural protective film to deter black flies and nourish the skin.

Essential oils:

  • Application: Dilute a mixture of essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus or tea tree oil in water and apply as a spray.
  • Mode of action: The intense fragrances repel black flies and prevent bites.

2. home remedies against deer lice flies in horses

Tea tree oil:

  • Application: Apply a few drops of tea tree oil to the affected areas to repel the flies.
  • Mode of action: Tea tree oil has a deterrent effect on deer lice flies. Skin tolerance should be tested before use as it can cause irritation in some horses.

Natural washing lotions:

  • Application: Wash the affected areas of skin with a solution containing pyrethrum extract. This should be applied at a concentration of 4%.
  • Mode of action: Pyrethrum has an insecticidal effect and helps to control deer louse flies in the long term.

3. home remedies to relieve insect bites on horses

Onion:

  • Application: Place a fresh onion slice directly on the sting.
  • Mode of action: Onion has anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties that reduce swelling and itching.

Aloe Vera:

  • Application: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected area.
  • Mode of action: Aloe vera cools the skin, relieves itching and promotes healing.

Cooling:

  • Application: Use cold compresses to reduce swelling and irritation.
  • Mode of action: Cooling has a calming effect and can reduce allergic reactions.

Practical tips for the use of home remedies

Home remedies are a natural and often effective way to help horses with ailments such as digestive problems, insect bites or skin irritations. In order for them to be fully effective, you should follow the tips below:

1. test compatibility

Test each home remedy on a small area of skin before applying it to a large area. This will ensure that your horse does not have an allergic reaction - especially with essential oils or mixtures with vinegar.

2. dose correctly

Always use home remedies in the right concentration. For example:

  • Vinegar-water mixtures: Dilute in a 1:1 ratio.
  • Essential oils: Add just a few drops to water or base oils.

3. regular use

Most home remedies require regular use to be effective. Examples:

  • Coconut oil against black flies: Apply daily to the affected areas.
  • Aloe vera for itching: Apply several times a day.

4. keep the stable and surroundings clean

Clean housing conditions are crucial for the success of home remedies. Regular cleaning of:

  • Bedding and troughs
  • Cleaning kit and blankets

5. add protective measures

Some home remedies work best in combination with:

  • Fly rugs and masks
  • Avoid heavily infested pasture areas (e.g. with grass mites).

6. targeted use of household remedies

Choose the right home remedy for the problem in question:

  • Vinegar-water mixture against grass mites.
  • Aloe vera for insect bites.
  • Curd soap for cleansing skin infections.

7. patience with the application

Some horses react sensitively to new products, especially sprays. Proceed with caution and get your horse used to it slowly.

8. storage and shelf life

Homemade home remedies such as fly spray or vinegar mixtures should be stored in a cool, dark place. Consume them within a few weeks to maintain their effectiveness.

9. obtain veterinary support

Home remedies can support veterinary treatment, but cannot replace it. For severe symptoms such as:

  • Colic
  • Serious skin infections
  • Swelling or lameness

you should consult a vet immediately.

10. act environmentally friendly

Use natural ingredients that are safe for both your horse and the environment. Chemical additives should be avoided.

Home remedies for horses: Summarized

Home remedies offer a valuable and natural supplement for horse health. They can be effective for a variety of ailments such as digestive problems, skin and coat problems, respiratory diseases or parasite defense. With the right application and taking into account the individual tolerance of your horse, many complaints can be gently and effectively alleviated.

It is important that you use home remedies in a targeted manner and support their effect through regular use and a clean environment. Veterinary treatment should always take priority for severe symptoms or chronic illnesses.

From coconut oil against black flies, to vinegar-water mixtures against grass mites, to aloe vera for skin care: with these natural solutions you can help your horse in a gentle way and protect the environment at the same time.

Tip box Tip
💡 Don't forget:
Home remedies can do a lot, but they are no substitute for a professional veterinary diagnosis. Use them wisely, in consultation with specialists, and support your horse's health and well-being in the long term.

Home remedies for horses: The most important questions and answers

What helps against black flies on horses?

Natural oils such as coconut oil or tea tree oil can be applied to the areas of the horse's skin that are at risk, as they have a deterrent effect on black flies. Essential oils such as lavender or eucalyptus can also be used in diluted form as a spray. It is important to test compatibility on a small area of skin beforehand.

What to do against hair lice in horses with home remedies?

Regular grooming of the coat with natural products such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil can help to control hair lice. Diatomaceous earth can be carefully worked into the coat, while neem oil is applied as a diluted solution. Thorough cleaning of the environment is also crucial.

What home remedies help against mauke in horses?

Traditional home remedies such as iodine soap to clean the affected areas or the application of tea tree oil can have a supportive effect. Envelopes with sauerkraut or powdering with baby powder are also recommended. It is important to keep the skin dry and to check the tolerance of the remedies.

Which linseed helps with watery stools in horses?

Linseed contains mucilage, which protects the stomach and intestinal walls and can bind excess water in the intestines. They are therefore suitable for supporting watery stools. It is important to prepare linseed correctly before feeding, for example by soaking or boiling, in order to develop its effect.

What helps against coughs in horses with home remedies?

Inhalations with chamomile or thyme can soothe the airways. Feeding black cumin oil or honey can also have a soothing effect. A dust-free environment is also beneficial.

What are home remedies for horses good for?

Home remedies can have a supportive effect on various complaints such as skin problems, digestive disorders or respiratory diseases. They serve as complementary measures to veterinary treatment and can promote the horse's well-being.

What helps against itching in horses with home remedies?

Applying aloe vera gel or calendula ointment can have a soothing effect. Washing with diluted apple cider vinegar or black tea can also reduce itching. It is important to identify the cause of the itching and treat it specifically.

When using home remedies, the individual tolerance of the horse should always be taken into account and, if in doubt, a vet should be consulted.

Author
Nele SchimmelpfennigClinicsMore FROM CMH.TV

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