BY now, horses are actively shedding their winter coats, leaving a layer of hair in the stable, on your clothes and inside your car. Shedding is more than just a nuisance, though. It’s a complex physiological process that tells you a lot about your horse’s health.

Contrary to popular belief, shedding is not controlled by temperature but by daylight. Therefore, as daylight hours slowly increase, a horse’s winter coat begins to loosen and shed. Since the amount of sunlight triggers shedding, owners should try to increase the length of time their horses are outside.