Grazing Muzzles for Horses

The difference between muzzles and grazing muzzles for horses 

That's right, there is a difference between a horse muzzle and a grazing muzzle. However, these two terms are often used as synonyms. The difference is quite simple: with a muzzle your horse cannot eat at all, with a grazing muzzle for horses the intake of food is still possible to a limited extent. 

The different types of horse muzzles and grazing muzzles

Whether for a Shetty, a Thoroughbred, a warmblood or a coldblood, a grazing muzzle for horses should always be made of a sturdy material. When it comes to fitting, the individual models can differ. There are grazing muzzles for horses with an integrated halter or a head strap, in which case a separate halter is not necessary. Other models are simply attached to the head strap of the halter or leather headcollars. The openings in the area of the mouth also vary depending on the design. Some muzzles have a hole in the middle, others have large individual holes or bars that slow down the intake of grass and hay. 

What to look for in muzzles and grazing muzzles for ponies and horses

It is always crucial that any muzzle used fits correctly. Regardless of whether it is a horse muzzle or a grazing muzzle, it must be comfortable to wear. Horses are particularly sensitive in the head area. You must make sure that the grazing muzzle used does not chafe, press or rest against the nostrils or in the horse's mouth area. Leather muzzles are particularly popular for this reason. Some muzzles are also padded with synthetic sheepskin to prevent chafing. To avoid overheating, we recommend muzzles made of light materials with large holes. Under no circumstances should your horse's breathing be restricted by the muzzle used. All in all, there are many points you have to pay attention to when using them. We therefore strongly advise against homemade muzzles. 

Getting the horse used to the muzzle gradually 

Horses are constant eaters, they prefer to spend the whole day eating. If this is restricted by a grazing muzzle, the horse will rarely appreciate it. A careful familiarisation phase is therefore essential. The acclimatisation phase should take place in small steps and be combined with positive reinforcement and sufficient praise. How long it will take your horse to get used to carrying a grazing muzzle will depend on the individual horse. If there are clear signs of stress or fear, you should reduce the use of the muzzle and repeat each step of the familiarisation phase. 

When does it make sense to use grazing muzzles or muzzles on horses?

In some cases, eating less or even nothing at all is much healthier for our horses. Our horses are getting fatter and fatter, with overweight horses becoming the rule rather than the exception. Being overweight has a negative effect on the horse's body and promotes various diseases such as laminitis, metabolic syndrome or Cushing's disease. For this reason, muzzles and grazing muzzles are used for horses that feed too much and for horses that suffer from laminitis. However, a muzzle is never the preferred weight loss method, more exercise should always be the first choice. Muzzles are also useful before surgery or after sedation. The muzzle can prevent life-threatening pharyngeal obstruction or colic. Therefore, horse muzzles are useful horse accessories that should not be missing from any stable pharmacy.

What should be considered when using muzzles and horse grazing muzzles?

•  The muzzle must fit well and must not cause any chafing.
• -The grazing muzzle must still allow your horse to open its mouth without any problems. 
• A gradual acclimatisation phase is important.
• Muzzles should only be used for a limited period. 
• Muzzles are only intended for use by the hour.
• If the temperature is particularly hot or humid, you should not use the grazing muzzle at all.
• You should check the fit and condition of the grazing muzzle several times a day.
• Even with a grazing muzzle, your horse must be able to drink without any problems. 

In our shop you will find a few selected models of grazing muzzles and muzzles for horses in different sizes and designs. You can also discover grazing muzzles from Horze, which can be quickly and easily attached to your horse's headcollars.