Why is my horse losing hair around the mane or tail base?
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Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
Hair loss around the mane or tail base is often linked to itching and rubbing, and lice are one possible cause. It can also be caused by skin irritation, flies, sweat, grooming friction or other coat and skin issues, so it’s worth checking the area carefully rather than assuming it’s one thing.
Things To Check
1. Look for itching, tail swishing, rubbing on fences, posts or stable fittings, and whether the horse seems worse after turnout or grooming.
2. Part the hair and check for broken hairs, scurf, nits, small moving insects, scabs or areas of redness.
3. Check the skin for heat, swelling, soreness or any signs the horse is uncomfortable when the area is touched.
4. Look at other horses in the same field or stable to see whether anyone else is itchy or losing hair too.
5. Think about recent changes such as new rugs, new bedding, different turnout, more sweating or a change in grooming routine.
6. Check the tail dock, mane crest and base of the tail for dandruff-like flakes, mud, dried sweat or crusting.
Common Causes
Lice are a common cause, especially if the horse is itchy, rubbing and showing scurf or broken hair. They often spread between horses in close contact.
Rubbing from flies, sweet itch, or general skin irritation can also cause hair loss around the mane and tail base, especially in warmer months.
Less commonly, skin infections, allergies, friction from tack or rugs, or a poor coat condition can play a part.
What To Do
Start by gently parting the hair and noting exactly where the loss is happening. If you can, compare it with the rest of the coat and check whether the skin looks dry, inflamed or broken.
Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid over-grooming or scratching the skin. If the horse is rubbing hard, try to reduce triggers in the environment, such as flies, dirty bedding or rough surfaces they can rub on.
If more than one horse is affected, keep a close eye on the others and speak to your vet or yard manager about a sensible approach for the group.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the skin is very sore, the hair loss is spreading quickly, there are open sores or crusting, or the horse seems generally unwell. A vet can help confirm whether lice, another skin problem or something else is involved.
Products That May Help
If you're dealing with itching, rubbing or general parasite-related coat irritation, this collection may be useful as part of your day-to-day management routine.
Related Questions
How do I tell if my horse has lice?
Can lice spread to other horses in the yard?
Why is my horse rubbing its mane and tail more in summer?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.