With horses being among the most significant domestic animals, they have grooming requirements that differ significantly from those of other animals such as dogs and cats. However, the biggest problem for many people who own horses is finding the right grooming tools. Without the proper tools, your horse can suffer from lice, mites, parasites, and ringworm. Therefore, you must know how to use the brushes that best suit your needs. Here is how to choose the best comb for your horse.
Size of Brushes
The size of the brush is an essential factor when trying to select a tool. Your horse’s coat grows thickly and can get tangled easily if the comb is not long enough. A longer brush allows the bristles to reach the base of the hair, while a shorter, may only touch the top layer of hair. Also, larger horses have thicker coats, so a large comb that fits their body correctly will help make brushing easier and safer.
Horse Care and Feeding Products
Horses require specific care and feeding products to thrive, brushing your horse’s coat is essential to keep it in good condition. However, avoid using any product on your horse’s hair that contains harsh chemicals or abrasives. When selecting a brush, look for something natural and safe to use. In this case, Kentucky’s grooming deluxe provides the best accessories for riders, and animal care too.
Shape of Brushes
Another thing to remember about brushes is how much space the horse will have to move around. A round comb will work better if the horse is confined to a stall or small area than a flat brush. In addition, avoid using a round tool on a horse with a naturally shaggy mane. These types of horses have thick hair and often have a lot of knots and tangles. Flat brushes are preferred over round brushes since flat brushes give your horse more room to maneuver.
Brush Type
There are two basic types of brushes that you can choose from: synthetic and natural. Synthetic combs are less expensive and can last many years. However, these brushes can cause problems for your horse if exposed to harsh chemicals. Natural brushes typically hold much more moisture than synthetic ones. While a natural brush will provide your horse with some protection against harsh elements, take extra precautions to ensure this does not become a problem. Washing your horse after using a natural comb will prevent any buildup on your horse’s skin.
Material
What material you choose for your brush will depend upon what type of brush you want to buy. You can select several materials, including nylon, fiberglass, or boar bristle. Each material works differently depending on what you expect from the brush. Nylon brushes are durable and can withstand heavy use. Fiberglass brushes are stiff and robust, making them ideal for grooming and trimming your horse’s coat. Boar bristles are the same length as other combs and offer excellent grip but are susceptible to getting clogged if the horse becomes wet. Hairbrushes are soft and luxurious but are prone to shedding.
Length of Handle
The handle length will determine how much area you can reach with a single comb sweep. Longer handles will allow you to cover more ground than shorter ones. Make sure that you select a brush that is long enough to perform its function well. If the bristles are too long, they could get caught in the dirt and cause damage.
It’s safe to say that brushing horses is good, but getting the job done correctly takes time and effort. That’s why you should choose the perfect comb for your horse. Now you can start to groom your horse step by step, knowing these basic facts that are important to care for them.
