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Can coat change cause rearing in horses?
Horse Behavior

Can coat change cause rearing in horses?

Hi! My horse stands up on her hind legs and I think it is because she is changing her coat. Is there anything good to give her? Right now she gets oats and B vitamins, but is there anything else that would be good to give? I really don't want her to rear because it isn't normal for her.
Answers from HayHay's experts

Is she shedding her winter coat? Some horses can become a little sore or extra sensitive in the skin during a coat change. That could be one reason she is rearing, but because this is a new and unexplained behaviour, the best thing is to call the vet out to check the horse over, so that she is not in pain.

What matters for growing the new coat, once the horse has lost the winter one, is that she takes in enough protein. B vitamins have no effect on the coat, either when it is shed or when it grows in.

Malin Connysson
Malin Connysson
Equine Nutritionist
Last reviewed:
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