We all want what’s best for our horse. Daily grooming plays a key role for both horse and rider. It’s a moment of true quality time. You’ll see results instantly, but more importantly: these moments strengthen the bond between you and your horse. Grooming products are much more than pampering – they truly make a difference. In this article, Cavalor experts share 6 top tips to upgrade your grooming routine.
A horse’s coat is a strong indicator of overall health. A fit horse shines with a glossy coat, clear eyes, and a lively spirit. Health begins from the inside – we all know that. But it doesn’t stop there: good grooming helps your horse shine even more. And don’t forget the hooves. They are your horse’s foundation, carrying its weight all day long. That’s why it’s essential they’re in top condition.
Crumbly hooves, painful soles, and dry feet are common problems. Hoof quality, shape, and alignment are largely hereditary. So how do you keep your horse’s hooves healthy? It starts with stable management, a knowledgeable farrier, and the right nutrition.
Tip 1: Brush with routine
Do you have a grooming routine? Start with a rubber curry comb for the muscular parts, continue with a stiff brush, and finish with a soft brush across the whole body. Complete the job with a sheepskin mitt.
A thorough grooming boosts circulation, loosens dirt and hair, and helps distribute sebum evenly across the coat. Each brush has a different effect, so it’s best to use a variety.
Tip 2: Massage to improve circulation
Massages not only feel good for your horse – they have real benefits. Brushing well can have the same effect as a hand massage. Massaging triggers the release of endorphins – the so-called “happy hormones” – which help your horse relax. It also improves blood circulation, aiding the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells. Plus, it helps you spot sore spots or small wounds. Take the time to massage after riding too – it helps clear out metabolic waste and reduce stress. Win-win!
Tip 3: Wash your horse with pH-neutral products
After a refreshing wash, your horse looks and smells great. But did you know your horse’s skin has a different pH than yours? Human skin has a pH of 4.0–5.5, while equine skin sits around 7.0–7.4. This outer skin layer is vital in protecting against temperature extremes and harmful bacteria.
Shampoos for humans (low pH) attract moisture and can dry out equine skin, causing flakiness. Strong degreasers (high pH) remove natural oils, making the coat dull and the skin dry and vulnerable. Always wash your horse with products formulated for equine skin – pH-neutral!
Tip 4: Act quickly when you see flakes
A shiny coat is a healthy one. But sometimes your horse has dandruff, a dull coat, or skin issues. Act quickly! Wash with a hygienic chlorhexidine-based shampoo, ideally enriched with glycerin. This will clean, disinfect, and moisturize. Your horse will be glowing again in no time. If you suspect a fungal condition, don’t forget to disinfect tack, saddle pads, and brushes too.
Tip 5: Focus on the hooves
Movement is essential – it supports the hoof mechanism and circulation. A clean, dry stall is also key. When urine mixes with bedding, ammonia forms. That softens the hoof, weakens its structure, and invites thrush. Keep the stable as clean and dry as possible.
Tip 6: Provide healthy nutrition
Grooming matters – but proper nutrition is the foundation. Without the right feeding programme, your horse will never feel truly good or show a glossy coat. Think of it this way: if you eat fast food every day, no skincare will give you a healthy glow. True radiance starts from within. A healthy horse efficiently absorbs nutrients and energy – and it shows.
Cavalor grooming must-haves
Bianco Spray – removes even the most stubborn stains
Ideal for white horses and legs, but also great for dark coats with stubborn spots. Leaves the coat clean, fresh-smelling, shiny, and silky soft.
PodoGuard – hoof oil for improved hoof quality
A unique blend of nourishing and essential oils that penetrate deep into the hoof to restore moisture balance and improve hoof strength and growth.
Derma Spray – probiotic cleansing spray
Just like in the gut, bacteria on the skin support immunity. Cavalor Derma Spray contains active pre- and probiotics that enhance the skin flora and strengthen natural defences. Use it on skin, coat, mane, and tail – perfect for wounds, itching, irritation, and other skin conditions.
Star Shine – superb conditioning spray for shine and volume
This long-lasting detangler and conditioner gives your horse’s coat a brilliant shine and keeps mane and tail tangle-free for days. Its pH-neutral, skin-friendly formula hydrates and adds volume and elasticity.
FreeBute Gel – cooling, soothing and deeply effective gel
Packed with 8 essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, and tea tree, Cavalor FreeBute Gel offers quick relief for tired, sore or strained muscles and joints.
Equi Wash – refreshing, caring shampoo
The ideal shampoo for a relaxing horse shower. pH-neutral and gentle on skin, yet tough on dirt. Leaves the coat clean with a healthy glow.
Lurax Cream – first aid cream for skin issues
Minor wounds or sunburn? No problem. Cavalor Lurax Cream soothes, supports healing, and helps minimize scarring. Ideal for everyday skin support.
