Clean, healthy skin and hooves are the foundation of every horse’s well-being. But for many equine caretakers and farriers, keeping bacteria and fungus at bay is an ongoing battle—especially in humid, damp, or stall-heavy environments.
Over time, these microorganisms can lead to issues like thrush, white line disease, skin infections, and dull, unhealthy coats. Fortunately, nature provides a powerful ally in copper, a metal long recognized for its antimicrobial and healing properties.
Kawell USA has harnessed the proven science of copper to create grooming and hoof care tools that keep horses cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable without the use of harsh chemicals.
The Power of Copper: Nature’s Antimicrobial Shield
Copper’s antimicrobial properties have been known for centuries. Long before modern disinfectants existed, ancient civilizations used copper to purify water and treat wounds. Today, science has confirmed what horse owners have observed firsthand — copper naturally destroys harmful microorganisms on contact.
The science behind this lies in copper ions, which are released when the metal comes into contact with moisture. These ions penetrate the cell walls of bacteria and fungi, disrupting vital processes and preventing reproduction. Unlike topical disinfectants that lose potency over time, copper’s antimicrobial activity is continuous. Even after exposure to dirt, sweat, and environmental contaminants, copper continues to work without wearing off.
For horses that spend long hours in stalls or paddocks, this ongoing protection is invaluable. It helps maintain skin balance, prevents infection, and supports an overall cleaner environment for grooming and hoof care.
How Kawell USA Turned Science Into Innovation
Kawell USA has taken copper’s natural benefits and translated them into specialized equine products designed for real-world use. Through patented engineering and veterinary-backed research, the company developed Copper Alloy Horseshoes, Copper Alloy Frog Inserts, Copper Alloy Bar Stock, and the innovative Copper Curry Horse Brush — all designed to protect horses from the harmful effects of bacteria and fungi while enhancing performance and comfort.
These products have been tested and verified through studies conducted by the University of Chile, the Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), and the Center for the Investigation, Development and Innovation of Structures and Materials (IDIEM). Their findings confirmed that copper alloys can eliminate 99.9% of bacteria and fungus, making them one of the most effective natural materials for equine care.
The Science in Action: How Copper Works
When microorganisms come into contact with copper surfaces, the following scientific process takes place:
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Cell Membrane Damage: Copper ions penetrate bacterial or fungal cell walls, compromising their structural integrity.
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Enzyme Inhibition: The ions interfere with key enzymes that the microorganism needs to survive, disrupting energy production.
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DNA Destruction: Copper ions bind to and degrade microbial DNA, preventing replication and spreading.
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Oxidative Stress: Copper triggers the formation of reactive oxygen species, which further damage harmful cells.
This process is entirely natural — no synthetic chemicals, coatings, or treatments are required. Kawell’s copper alloy retains these properties indefinitely, even after prolonged use in wet, dry, or abrasive conditions.
The Copper Curry Horse Brush: Grooming Without Cross-Contamination
Among Kawell USA’s most revolutionary grooming tools is the Copper Curry Horse Brush, made entirely from 100% copper. Traditional grooming brushes can harbor bacteria, especially when used on multiple horses, creating a risk of cross-contamination. The Copper Curry Brush solves this problem naturally.
Because copper kills microorganisms on contact, it ensures a clean grooming experience every time. The brush efficiently removes dirt, dust, and loose hair while massaging the horse’s skin, stimulating circulation, and promoting a healthy coat. Its antimicrobial nature also means that each grooming session is hygienic — no bacterial buildup, no odor, and no transfer of skin irritants between horses.
For farriers, trainers, and barn managers, the Copper Curry Brush is an ideal addition to the tack room. It provides both a professional-grade grooming experience and peace of mind, knowing that the horse’s skin and coat are being protected naturally.
Key Benefits:
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Eliminates bacteria and fungus on contact
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Prevents cross-contamination between horses
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Promotes skin health and coat shine
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Gentle yet effective for all coat types
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Durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to clean
Copper in Hoof Care: A Long-Term Solution for Health and Strength
Beyond grooming, copper’s antimicrobial power plays an essential role in hoof care. Kawell USA’s Copper Alloy Horseshoes and Frog Inserts utilize the same principles to combat infections like thrush and white line disease. When applied to the hoof, the copper alloy continuously releases ions that kill bacteria and fungi before they can penetrate deeper layers of the hoof wall or frog.
These patented designs, registered with the Copper Development Association (UNS Alloy No. C6915) and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA #82012-3), provide an unmatched level of microbial control. Unlike coated shoes that lose their protective layer, Kawell’s copper alloy is solid throughout — meaning its antimicrobial benefits never fade.
Combined with Natural Horse Hoof Paste, which uses pine oil and pine tar to nourish and protect the hoof wall, farriers can create a complete copper-based care system that prevents disease, enhances strength, and supports long-term hoof integrity.
Why Antimicrobial Grooming Matters
Horses are constantly exposed to environments that foster microbial growth — stalls, mud, sweat, and shared grooming tools. Without proper hygiene, these can lead to recurring skin and hoof conditions that compromise comfort and performance. Antimicrobial grooming eliminates that risk before it starts.
By integrating copper-based tools like the Copper Curry Brush and products such as Copper Alloy Horseshoes, horse owners and farriers can maintain superior hygiene standards with minimal effort. This natural approach not only enhances health but also reduces dependency on harsh chemical treatments or repeated disinfecting routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does copper ever lose its antimicrobial effectiveness?
No. Copper’s antimicrobial properties are inherent to the metal itself. Even after tarnishing or repeated exposure to moisture, its ion-releasing process continues indefinitely, ensuring long-term effectiveness.
Can the Copper Curry Horse Brush be used on multiple horses?
Yes. Because the brush eliminates bacteria and fungi on contact, it’s safe to use across different horses without risk of cross-contamination.
Are copper grooming tools safe for sensitive skin?
Absolutely. The Copper Curry Brush is gentle yet effective, making it suitable for all coat types, including horses with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
How are Kawell’s copper products different from copper-coated tools?
Kawell’s products are made from solid copper alloy—not coated. This ensures the antimicrobial action is active throughout the product’s lifetime, unlike coatings that wear off over time.
Can copper-based tools replace chemical disinfectants?
Copper products significantly reduce the need for chemical cleaners, though regular cleaning with water is still recommended to remove debris. They offer a continuous, natural layer of protection that complements routine hygiene practices.
How Copper Protects Horses: The Science Behind Antimicrobial Grooming
From grooming to hoof care, copper’s antimicrobial power provides horses with a cleaner, healthier environment year-round. Kawell USA’s copper alloy innovations—like the Copper Curry Horse Brush and Copper Alloy Horseshoes—represent the perfect blend of natural science and advanced equine care. By incorporating these tools into your barn’s daily routine, you can protect your horses from infection, improve coat condition, and promote lasting health—all through the power of copper.
