Sun cream for horses: why protection against UV radiation is so important

The dangers of sunburn in horses

Sunburnt skin can be very uncomfortable for your horse. At first, you will often notice redness or sensitivity, but with continued exposure, flakes, scabs or small wounds may also develop. Some horses start rubbing, which can damage the skin even further.

Pay particular attention to signs such as redness, dry patches, scabs, wounds or sensitivity to touch. Do you notice that the skin is severely irritated, broken or not healing? Contact your veterinarian.

Which sun cream works well for horses?

Preferably choose a sun cream that is suitable for animals and pleasant to apply to sensitive areas.

Grand National Sun Cream is, for example, a sun cream for horses with SPF 30. The cream is suitable for unpigmented areas of skin and also has a caring effect. This makes the product practical for horses that need extra protection on light or sensitive areas of skin.

Excellent Equi Sunblock is sun protection for horse and rider. This is practical for use at the stable, during hacks or at competitions, as you can use one product for several situations.

How do you use sun cream on horses?

Apply sun cream before your horse goes outside for a longer period of time. Carefully cover the vulnerable areas of skin and be cautious around the eyes. Repeat this regularly, especially when UV levels are high, if your horse spends a lot of time outside or if the product does not stay in place as well due to sweating or friction.

Also check the skin daily, so that you notice redness, dryness or irritation in good time.

Other ways to protect your horse

In addition to sun cream, you can also take extra measures to protect your horse against strong sun and UV radiation:

• Provide enough shade in the field
• Avoid long exposure during the strongest hours of sunshine
• Use a fly mask with UV protection if needed
• Let sensitive horses go outside during the cooler hours on warm days

When should you pay extra attention?

Be extra alert with horses that have pink skin, white markings, thin hair or existing skin problems. Does your horse have recurring irritation, painful areas or wounds that do not heal? Always consult a veterinarian.

Protect your horse properly against UV radiation

Sun cream for horses is a simple way to help protect sensitive areas of skin. Especially for horses with little pigment, applying sun cream on sunny days is important. In combination with enough shade and regular checks, you help prevent sunburn, irritation and further skin problems.