Sun protection for horses is often overlooked because most people think that a horse's coat is enough to protect them. In some cases this may be true, but many horses, especially those turned out in the summer, may still feel the effects of the sun's harmful rays.
Key takeaways
- Some horses are more sensitive to the sun, especially those with pink skin and light coats.
- The sun's UV rays can cause damage to a horse's skin in a way similar to its effects on humans, including sunburn and increased risk of skin cancer.
- Horses predisposed to uveitis are often very sensitive to the sun, and UV rays can even worsen this painful condition in some horses.
- Certain toxicities and types of liver disease can make horses more sensitive to UV rays; This is called photosensitization.
- Sun protection in the form of UV fly masks, fly sheets and sunscreen can be very helpful in protecting your horse.
Do horses need sun protection?
All horses could benefit from some sun protection.
Although dark bay and black horses tend to be less sensitive to the sun's harmful rays, you may still see the effects, such as bleaching of their coat color as well as sunburn on the nose, around the eyes, and white-haired areas like flames and socks.
White, painted and other light-colored horses need even more support, especially those with pink skin.
In the short term, excessive sun exposure can cause sunburn, which is painful and can make horses resistant to bridling. Long-term, high UV exposure is linked to certain skin and eye cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma, and worsening of uveitis, an inflammatory eye condition.
Which horses are most at risk from sun damage?
Some horses' coats and skins provide greater protection or are more resistant to sun damage, while others have characteristics that make them more sensitive and prone to sunburn and skin cancer.
Horses with pink skin or white markings
Some breeds like American Paints and Appaloosas have pink skin under the hair. This skin burns much more easily and often burns in areas that are not as well protected by hair, such as the nose, eyelids, and white paws.
Horses with fine or sparse hair
Some horse breeds have thinner coats, such as thoroughbreds. These horses and those with shaved hair are more in need of additional sun protection.
Horses prone to photosensitivity or skin conditions
Certain toxins, medications (such as doxycycline), and liver conditions can cause photosensitization. This is when the skin becomes extremely sensitive to UV rays, leading to severe sunburn-like damage, especially in areas with white hair.
Signs of Sunburn and Sun Damage in Horses
Sunburn is a concern in horses just as it is in humans. Not only is it painful, but repeated sunburn can predispose horses to certain types of skin cancer. Signs of sunburn include:
The best ways to protect horses from the sun
There are many ways to protect your horse from the sun. This may include fly masks and UV protection, as well as topical sunscreens.
Fly masks with UV protection
Anti-UV fly masks, like this one from LeMieux, are one of the best ways to protect your horse from the sun.
These masks protect their skin as well as the horse's eyes. Hair tends to be finer around the eyes and ears and is not present on the muzzle at all. Fly masks with nasal coverings can be a particularly good option for horses with pink noses.
Sun cream for horses
Sunscreen is another great option for protecting your horse, especially if he doesn't like to wear a fly mask or if he needs to compete when it's not practical to have a fly mask.
Human sunscreen may contain ingredients that are unsafe for horses, so it is recommended to choose one specifically formulated for horses, such as Equiderma Zinc Oxide Horse Sunscreen.
It should be applied primarily to areas with fine hair and pink skin, including the face, white markings and muzzle.
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and more often if your horse sweats a lot. So it may not be the best option for horses that are outside most of the day.
Protective sheets and equipment
Roof covers and turnout rugs with UV protection are a great option for full body coverage, especially for horses with light coats and skins.
Many of these products are lightweight and breathable, making them effective sun protection during the summer heat.
Smart participation and management practices
UV protective clothing and sunscreen are great options when avoiding direct sunlight is not possible, but making small changes to your participation and riding schedule can be the best protection of all. You can:
When to call a veterinarian
Sometimes sun damage can go beyond what can be managed on the farm, and it's time to call the vet. Here are some signs that a visit from your veterinarian may be appropriate:
Sun protection is as important for horses as it is for humans, and just like in humans, sun damage can be difficult to spot. UV protection can help prevent everything from sunburn to skin cancer. Although some horses with lighter skin and coats are more susceptible, damage to horses with thicker, darker coats should not be overlooked.
FAQs on Sun Protection for Horses
Can I use baby sunscreen on my horse?
Because human sunscreens may contain ingredients that are toxic to horses, it is important to only choose sunscreen specifically formulated for horses.
Do fly masks really block UV rays?
Not all fly masks block UV rays. Specifically look for fly masks labeled as providing UV protection.
How often should I apply sunscreen to my horse?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, but more frequently if your horse sweats profusely, is wet after drinking or bathing, or if more frequent applications are recommended by the manufacturer.
