What are the main functions of the skin in horses?

• A. Protection against microorganisms, sensory detection, sebum production, temperature control, waste excretion, and protection against radiation.
• B. Only protection.
• C. Only temperature control.
• D. Only sensory detection.

Answer: (A)

The skin of a horse serves several important roles at once. It acts as a protective barrier against microorganisms and injury, helps prevent dehydration, and houses sensory nerves that detect touch, temperature, and pain. Sebaceous glands produce sebum to keep the skin and coat supple and water-resistant. For temperature control, the skin works with sweat glands and changes in blood flow to regulate heat, while the hair coat adds insulation. It also carries out minor waste excretion through sweat and provides protection from sunlight through pigment and hair. Because these multiple functions are all part of how the skin works, the option listing protection, sensory detection, sebum production, temperature control, waste excretion, and radiation protection best describes its main roles.