Scratching Brushes & Mats: Wellness in the Horse Box

Scratching Brushes & Mats for Horses: Natural Coat Care

Rubbing and scratching is a natural need for horses. Especially during the shedding season, with insect bites, or mild skin irritations, animals look for ways to find relief. In the wild, they use tree trunks for this. In the stable or paddock, these natural opportunities are often missing. Scratching brushes and mats for horses offer a safe, species-appropriate alternative here, increasing well-being and providing relaxation at the same time.

Protection for the Horse and Stable Equipment

If the horse does not have designated scratching options available, it will inevitably rub against box walls, feed troughs, waterers, or fence posts. This not only carries a high risk of injury from splintering wood or sharp edges but also leads to expensive damage to the stable equipment. Specially designed scratching mats and flexible brushes safely absorb this urge. They are constructed to withstand the horse's pressure without the animal getting trapped or injured.

Robust Materials for Continuous Use

Since horses exert an enormous amount of weight and strength, the materials must be extremely resilient. High-quality scratching mats are made of vulcanized natural rubber or robust special plastic. They withstand heat, frost, and UV radiation and can be mounted both indoors and outdoors. Scratching brushes usually feature thick, firm nylon bristles that massage intensively while remaining gentle on the skin and not tearing out hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where and at what height should I mount scratching mats?
The ideal height is based on the horse's shoulder and withers height. Scratching brushes or mats should be screwed to sturdy walls, solid posts, or edges in the paddock. Make sure that the fastening is strong enough to permanently withstand the counter-pressure of a half-ton horse.

Does a scratching brush help with shedding?
Yes, absolutely. The firm bristles or rubber nubs reliably pull loose hair out of the coat and stimulate blood circulation in the skin at the same time. This speeds up shedding and prevents severe itching, as old skin flakes are gently removed.

Are scratching mats suitable for horses with sweet itch?
Scratching mats are a huge relief for horses with eczema. They offer a safe surface where the horse can rub without scratching itself bloody, as is often the case on rough wooden edges. Nevertheless, they naturally do not replace medical care and insect protection.