Pferdepflege: Die tägliche Routine für gesunde, glückliche Pferde

Morning Routine: Starting the Day Right

A consistent morning routine sets the tone for your horse's wellbeing. Begin by observing the horse from outside the stable — check for signs of discomfort, unusual sweating, or abnormal posture before entering. Then:

• Provide fresh hay and check water levels
• Check the horse's general demeanour and appetite
• Pick out hooves and check for stones, heat, or sensitivity
• Groom the coat, mane, and tail
• Check for cuts, rubs, or any new lumps

Nutrition: The Foundation of Horse Health

Horses are trickle feeders by nature — they evolved to graze for 16–18 hours per day. This means forage (hay or grass) should form the majority of their diet. Key nutrition principles:

• Ad lib quality hay – minimum 1.5% of bodyweight in dry matter per day
• Clean, fresh water – 25–45 litres per day depending on work level and temperature
• Concentrate feed – only if required by work level; never exceed 2 kg per meal
• Salt block – essential for electrolyte balance, especially in summer
• Regular dental checks – every 6–12 months for proper chewing

Exercise Requirements

A stabled horse should receive daily exercise. Even on rest days, turnout or hand walking prevents digestive issues and maintains mental wellbeing. Sport horses typically work 5–6 days per week with structured sessions.

Hoof Care

Hooves should be trimmed or shod every 6–8 weeks by a qualified farrier. Regular picking out prevents thrush and white line disease. Watch for signs of laminitis — a serious and potentially fatal condition triggered by diet or management errors.

Preventative Health Care

• Vaccinations: Annual flu/tetanus vaccination (bi-annual for competition horses)
• Worming: Faecal egg counts to guide targeted treatment
• Dental care: Annual check and rasping by equine dentist
• Vet checks: Annual health screening including body condition scoring

Our Stable Standards

At our family stable in Szarvas, Hungary, we have applied these care principles for over 60 years. Every horse in our care receives spacious, well-bedded boxes, premium forage, and daily turnout. These high standards are one reason why horses from our stable consistently maintain excellent health and soundness.