Very Common
Rare
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Dull or Poor Haircoat
Summary
A rough or dull coat is a sign that a horse is not thriving for some reason. Horses that receive poor nutrition, have chronic low grade parasitism, or any chronic disease tend to show it in their coat. A late winter coat that is shedding is expected to be dry and dull.
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Code Yellow
Contact Your Vet at Your Convenience for an Appointment- To have your vet rule out underlying health concerns.
your role
What To Do
Evaluate your feeding and management regimen. Call your vet to discuss your horse's nutritional needs and general healthcare program, including parasite control. A general exam and additional diagnostics may be recommended.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Your vet assesses the horse's general health with a physical exam. They consider management and feeding, and interpret the horse's condition and hair coat with that in mind. It is important to rule out any underlying disease before simply resorting to feeding products that improve the coat. Laboratory work may be helpful in ruling out underlying conditions.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- How old is the horse?
- Is the horse fed alone or with other horses?
- What are the results of the Whole Horse Exam (WHE)?
- How is your horse's attitude and appetite?
- What do you feed the horse?
- What is your parasite control program?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
