You are out in the pasture and notice your mare’s coat is dusty and tangled. You wonder how often you should pick up the curry comb to keep her looking her best without overdoing it. Our editorial team has gathered practical advice on grooming frequency for mares that fits their unique needs.
Mares have thicker coats in winter and shed heavily in spring, so grooming needs change with the seasons. The key is to balance removing dirt and loose hair with preserving natural oils that protect their skin. We recommend adjusting your routine based on her environment, workload, and coat condition.
Seasonal Grooming Frequency for Mares
In spring, when mares shed their winter coats, daily grooming is ideal to remove loose hair and prevent skin irritation. Use a shedding blade or curry comb to help the process, but avoid overbrushing sensitive spots. During summer, two to three times per week is enough to keep the coat clean and free of sweat and dirt.
In autumn, as the coat thickens, weekly grooming suffices unless your mare is in heavy work. Winter grooming can be reduced to once a week or even less if she is not being ridden, focusing on removing mud and checking for skin issues under the hair. Always be gentle in cold weather to avoid chilling her.
Grooming Before and After Riding
If you ride your mare regularly, a quick grooming session before tacking up is essential to remove dirt that can cause saddle sores. Spend five to ten minutes currying and brushing the saddle and girth areas. After riding, groom again to wipe away sweat and check for rubs or injuries.
For mares that are not ridden, a thorough grooming once a week is usually sufficient. However, if she has a thick winter coat or lives in a muddy paddock, you may need to groom more often just to keep her comfortable and clean.
Coat Type and Sensitivity Considerations
Mares with thick, double coats benefit from more frequent grooming during shedding season to prevent matting and skin problems. Those with thin coats may need gentler, less frequent brushing to avoid irritating their skin. Pay attention to your mare’s reaction: if she flinches or tries to move away, you may be brushing too hard or too often.
Some mares have sensitive skin, especially on the belly and between the hind legs. Use soft brushes in those areas and limit grooming to when necessary. Overgrooming can strip natural oils and lead to dry, flaky skin.
Grooming for Health Checks and Bonding
Frequent grooming is a great opportunity to check for cuts, lumps, or signs of illness. Run your hands over her body to feel for heat or swelling. Pay special attention to her legs for any filling or heat, and check her hooves for stones or thrush. These checks can be done during regular grooming sessions.
Grooming also strengthens your bond with your mare. Use it as a quiet time to build trust, especially if she is nervous. A gentle grooming routine two to three times a week can help her relax and enjoy your company.
Adjusting Frequency for Show or Event Preparation
If you plan to show your mare, increase grooming frequency in the weeks leading up to the event. Daily grooming with extra attention to mane and tail training will help her look her best. Use detangling sprays sparingly to avoid buildup.
For mares that are competing in endurance or eventing, groom after every ride to remove sweat and prevent skin infections. A quick rinse with water (if weather permits) can help, but always dry her thoroughly before turning out.