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Written by: Jessica Konopinski
Published on: 08/28/2023
If you’ve ever dealt with a painful sunburn you know just how debilitating it can be. Believe it or not, horses can get sunburn just as easily as humans can. While not as widely known,, horses can be suffering from sun damage right before our eyes and we may not even notice right away. Since some horses are more prone to sunburn than others, it’s important to learn all there is to know about how to identify, treat and prevent sunburn in our four-legged friends. To make this process the most simple as possible, we went ahead and answered all your questions so that you can be more than prepared to care for your horse.
Just like in humans, some areas of the body are more prone to getting sunburn than others. Since we don’t always have control over how much or for how long our horses are exposed to ultraviolet or UV light, understanding how to protect their sensitive areas is key.
In horses, the most commonly affected areas are the eyes, muzzle or nose. Depending on if your horse's skin is pigmented or not around the eyes and muzzle, the severity and risk of sunburn can vary. Same thing applies for the rest of the horse's body. When a horse is categorized as unpigmented it means that their skin is actually pink underneath. [1] If you are confused and don’t know if this applies to your horse, always feel free to ask your veterinarian for some guidance.
While all horses can technically get sunburn, some breeds are more prone than others. Breeds including Appaloosas, Pintos and Paints most commonly have sensitive skin that is prone to sunburn due to their unpigmented portions on their face, nose and coat. [1] This will significantly vary depending on your horse's own unique skin and coat, but being aware of these areas will allow you to catch any abnormalities before they persist.
In rare cases, horses can develop photosensitization. This is a condition where horses are ultra sensitive to sun exposure. Similar to sunburn, photosensitization can develop in similar locations. Unlike sunburn, photosensitization can be a result of the ingestion of forages like alfalfa and clover. The intake of sulfa medications and liver damage can also result in a horse developing photosensitization. [2]
Sun damage in horses can result in more than just a burn. Oftentimes, peeling, blisters, puffiness and cracked skin can occur. [1] Another common sign of sun damage that is oftentimes overlooked is head shyness or other behavioral issues that may indicate a horse is in discomfort. [2] If your horse presents any concerning areas of sun damage, no matter the appearance, it's important to consult a veterinarian in order to rule out major concerns like skin disease (photosensitization) or different types of cancer such as squamous cell carcinoma.
Depending on the severity of the sun damage, there are a few different treatment options. When it comes to treating sun damage, first things first- consult with your veterinarian. It's always best to rule out the most serious conditions first so that you’re able to treat the area early and effectively.
In the rare case your horse does present skin disease or a form of cancer such as squamous cell carcinoma, intralesional chemotherapy or topical chemotherapy can be used. Sometimes surgical removal is necessary. [3] If your horse’s sun damage does not present as skin disease or cancer, some treatment options can include softening cream, antibiotic cream and the use of sun protection gear such as a fly mask or fly sheet.
When it comes to sun damage, prevention is everything. The good news is that with consistency and by taking the right precautions you can avoid sun damage fairly simply. If your horse's skin is unpigmented and showing signs of sun sensitivity, it’s best to provide them with shaded shelter during peak sunlight hours. You can also use sun protective gear if your horse must be in the sun during its strongest hours. Another common preventative is sunscreen. There are tons of sunscreens out there specially formulated for horses that come as a cream or spray. Be sure to reapply when necessary and ask your veterinarian for recommendations if the condition persists.
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✅ Single ingredient, 100% pure Camelina Oil.
✅ Non-GMO
✅ Ideal balance of Omega-3 compared to other products, like soybean oil.
✅ Canadian produced and operated.
Jessica is a brand consultant who brings awareness and intention to equestrian and pet platforms. As a former collegiate equestrian athlete and animal lover, Jessica leads with passion and experience through her writing and brand work for companies who advocate for creating a difference in their space. When she's not riding her horse or walking her dog (with iced coffee in hand), you can find her sharing her love for health and wellness with others and integrating these practices in her everyday work.
