1. What causes a horse to scratch and rub its tails (often causing hair loss and raw spots)? 

A. Flies 

B. Dry skin 

C. Fungus 

D. All of the above

2. True or False: Tail hair and skin can become irritated and dry from sun damage. 

True / False 

3. What are some of the nutrients a horse needs for a healthy tail? 

A. Magnesium, Vitamin D, MSM

B. Keratin, Biotin, Zinc

C. Glucosamine, Vitamin C, Glycine

Note: All of these vitamins and minerals are essential to a horse’s overall health, choose the answer that is most helpful for a healthy tail. 

4. Why do horses swish their tail? 

A. To show they are happy. 

B. When they are scared. 

C. To keep flies and other bugs off. 

How’d You Do? 

1. D. There are many factors that can cause a horse to itch their tail but some of the main reasons are if the skin becomes itchy, dry, flaky, and irritated. Be on the lookout for ringworm, summer itch, rain rot, insect bites, and dry flaky skin near or on your horse’s tail so you can stop the issue before the itching begins. 

[More on Tail Care: 3 Things You Must Do For a Healthy Tail]

2. True. Especially during the summer months, tail hair and skin is susceptible to sun damage. The hair can become dry and brittle and the skin can burn or become dry and flaky. Look for a fly spray or topical product that has sweat-resistant SPF protection. 

3. B. Overall health and nutrition play a huge role in your horse’s hair health. Keratin is a protein made up of amino acids and contains a high concentration of sulfur. Keratin helps keep hair strands strong and prevents breakage. Biotin is essential for protein metabolism and contributes to sulfur production for proper keratin formation. Zinc is an essential trace mineral that also plays a role in protein production and supports healthy skin and hair. 

4. C. Horses swish their tails to keep flies and bugs off of their body and is also a sign of irritation. 

[More Tail Care Trivia: Long & Lovely or Short & Ratty?] 

Don’t miss out! If you’re not already receiving H&R’s fun and informative weekly newsletter, sign up now for The Ride. It’s *free*!

ALSO *FREE*: The terrific e-magazines Horse&Rider Monthly and Trail Rider Monthly. Sign up now!