OF THE HAIR 267 



during combat ; and the tail acts the double purpose 

 of an ornament, and as a switch to drive off insects 

 from its rear. The tufts of hair springing from the 

 fetlocks defend them from contusion, and also protects 

 the heels. The coat is of a uniform thickness all over 

 the body, excepting upon the inner parts of the thighs, 

 under the arms, etc. The coat varies in quality, colour, 

 and length in different breeds. The thoroughbred 

 racer, the Arabian, Barbs, and Turkish horses are re- 

 markable for the shortness and sleekness of their coat ; 

 while the cart-horse, the Shetland pony, and horses 

 of all northern climates, are distinguished by the 

 length, roughness, and coarseness of their hair. The 

 lighter the shade of colour, the finer the hair ; and it 

 has been found that in the chestnut and light bay 

 horses there are many more hairs in a square inch 

 than in black and other dark-coloured horses. 



The coat is shed twice a year, in spring and 

 autumn. In a state of nature this commences with 

 great regularity as to time ; but in a state of domestica- 

 tion, this process is much influenced by the tempera- 

 ture and stable management. The hair of the mane 

 and tail is never shed. Regeneration of the hair is 

 attended with a considerable expenditure of nervous 

 energy, and consequently the strength of the animal 

 during this process is affected, as well as his general 

 health. The horse at this time feels a general languor, 

 and consequently should not be subjected to violent 

 exercise or hard work. This weakness will invariably 

 be manifested by profuse perspiration when at work. 

 Hard labour at these periods frequently induces 

 various complaints. 



To facilitate the process of moulting, or changing 

 the coat, spices and other stimulants have been given 

 to horses, which no doubt has the effect of hastening 



