What’s Really in That Bottle? The Hidden Harmful Chemicals in Horse Products

From shampoos and fly sprays to wound ointments and coat conditioners, the equine care aisle is packed with promises. But if you’ve ever glanced at the ingredient list on a conventional horse care product, you might notice a long list of chemical names that are hard to pronounce — and even harder on your horse’s skin.

At Bonela Equine, we believe that caring for your horse shouldn’t come with hidden risks. Let’s take a closer look at some common chemicals lurking in traditional equine products — and why choosing natural alternatives matters more than ever.

1. Parabens – The Silent Preservative

Found in: shampoos, sprays, and creams

Why it’s harmful: Parabens are synthetic preservatives that can mimic hormones and disrupt the endocrine system. In horses, as in humans, they may irritate the skin and potentially affect long-term health with repeated exposure.

Look for on labels: methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben

2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – The Harsh Foaming Agent

Found in: shampoos and cleansers

Why it’s harmful: SLS makes shampoos foam, but it’s also a powerful detergent that strips the skin’s natural oils and can cause irritation, dryness, and flakiness. On horses with sensitive or already compromised skin, this can do more harm than good.

3. Synthetic Fragrances – Hidden Allergens

Found in: almost everything from fly sprays to coat conditioners

Why it’s harmful: "Fragrance" might sound harmless, but it’s often a blanket term for dozens (or hundreds) of undisclosed chemical compounds. These can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and skin sensitivities in both horses and handlers.

Look for on labels: “fragrance,” “parfum,” or unnamed scent blends

4. DEET – The Potent Pesticide

Found in: many conventional fly repellents

Why it’s harmful: DEET is a strong chemical insect repellent, but it’s also a registered pesticide. It can irritate skin, eyes, and mucous membranes — and when used over large areas or for long periods, it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. There’s a safer way to keep the bugs off.

5. Mineral Oil and Petroleum-Based Ingredients

Found in: wound ointments, hoof balms, and conditioners

Why it’s harmful: While they may create a protective barrier, mineral oil and petrolatum are byproducts of petroleum and offer no actual healing benefits. Worse, they can trap heat, dirt, and bacteria against the skin — slowing healing rather than supporting it.

So What Should You Use Instead?

At Bonela Equine, we’ve replaced the chemicals with nature’s own pharmacy:

Everything we make is 100% natural, handmade in small batches, and free from synthetic chemicals. Because your horse deserves pure care — nothing more, nothing less.