Skin & Coat Health in Horses

Clinical Importance of Skin Barrier Integrity

The equine epidermal barrier is a dynamic defense system, protecting against mechanical insults, pathogens, allergens, and water loss. Disruption of this barrier can lead to pruritus, secondary infections, and performance decline. In many cases, dermatologic signs are the first visible symptoms of deeper metabolic or immunological imbalances. 

Veterinary care should therefore adopt a dual approach—addressing internal nutritional deficiencies and supporting skin restoration through targeted topical interventions. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Evidence-Based Support  

Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids—particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—play an essential role in modulating inflammatory responses and maintaining skin homeostasis. Because horses cannot endogenously synthesize these fatty acids, supplementation becomes essential, especially in animals with limited access to fresh pasture or with elevated metabolic demands. 

Key Veterinary Benefits of Omega-3 Supplementation: 

1. Anti-inflammatory modulation: EPA and DHA competitively inhibit arachidonic acid pathways, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids.
2. Support for pruritic and allergic dermatoses: Particularly relevant in cases of insect bite hypersensitivity, atopic-like dermatitis, and chronic urticaria.
3. Enhancement of skin hydration and follicular health: Promotes a glossy coat and supports the integrity of the stratum corneum.
4. Immune regulation: Beneficial in horses exhibiting systemic hypersensitivities or recurrent dermatitis of unknown etiology. 

Targeted supplementation with omega-3s should be considered in any dermatological management plan, particularly during periods of seasonal challenge or recovery from dermatoses. 

Multimodal Management: A Synergistic Approach

In clinical practice, a combined strategy that integrates systemic nutrition and topical therapy often yields the best outcomes. This approach is particularly recommended for:

• Horses experiencing seasonal or recurrent dermatitis (e.g., IBH)
• Equines recovering from superficial pyoderma, dermatophilosis, or fungal infections
• Animals subjected to environmental extremes or inadequate forage quality
• Cases exhibiting chronic dull coat, alopecia, or scaling

Preventative care protocols should incorporate ongoing barrier support and nutritional monitoring—not just episodic intervention. 

Recommended skin and coat products for horses  

Equine dermatology requires a proactive, multimodal approach that combines evidence-based nutritional interventions with advanced topical care. By supporting skin health both systemically and locally, we can improve outcomes in horses suffering from dermatological conditions and contribute to overall patient wellbeing and performance.