Correct management and care of your Friesian’s feathers is a vital part of their grooming program. While ample feathers are a staple of the Friesian breed, this area can also become a source for fungus, bacteria and skin infection. Here’s our step-by-step protocol for caring for the delicate skin beneath the feathers.
Daily
At ISF, we brush out the feathers daily using a pulling or tick comb to release any dirt or flaky build up. We also check for any skin irritation such as scratches. While the pastern is the most common area for these issues to occur, check the fetlock area closely. Keeping the feathers dry is the best practice to prevent skin issues, coupled with regularly scheduled washes.
Washing the Feathers
When washing your Friesian’s feathers, work your favorite medicated equine shampoo into the base of the hair until a lather has formed. Take your time to address the leg from the fetlock down to the coronet band of the hoof, working your fingers to separate the hair.
At ISF, we like Vetrolin shampoo or antiseptic Phytovet shampoo to keep scratches at bay. With a medicated shampoo, allow the product to work for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing.
Once the hair has been thoroughly rinsed, we dry the feathers with a hair dryer, working section by section to ensure all moisture has been removed. Ideally, wash the feathers no more than a couple times per week. Overdoing the bathing will kill the good bacteria on the skin.
Clipping
Another practice we’ve found helpful at ISF is to clip the back part of the pastern under the feathers, carefully and minimally. This cuts down on moisture levels and still retains the beautiful look of the feathers. You also have more direct access to the problem areas of the pastern. Once clipped, we like to use Coat Defense Powder for Horses to keep the feather area dry. This powder alleviates skin issues and is USEF and FEI compliant.
Scratches
If you see early signs of scratches, begin spot treating the affected areas with rubbing alcohol, which also helps dry out any moisture. You can also use a drying solution like Coat Defense Trouble Spot Drying Paste, or an antifungal cream like Desitin. It is important to make sure the skin and hair are thoroughly dry before adding any topical treatments. If your Friesian is having difficulties resolving a case of scratches, be sure to consult with your veterinarian sooner rather than later as a stronger remedy, such as a course of antibiotics, antifungal or steroids, might be necessary.
Hopefully, these ideas are easily added to your own at-home Friesian grooming program. Following a consistent feather care plan is the best approach to keep your Friesian healthy, happy, and show ring ready.
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All content provided by Iron Spring Farm is general and for informational purposes only. Content may also not constitute the most up to date information. Nothing in this content is intended to constitute veterinarian advice or to serve as a substitute for consultation with a veterinarian. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified provider with any questions that you may have about the treatment and care of your horse.
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