Help Your Horse Beat Flies and Sunburn This Summer

Summer's arrival brings both warmth and an increase in pesky insects that can trouble your horse. With proper preparation, you can help your horse stay comfortable and protected from flies and sunburn this season.

Fly Protection: Choosing the Right Gear for Your Horse

Flies such as black flies, horse flies, bot flies, and midges can cause discomfort and irritate your horse. Protective fly rugs are essential. Look for rugs made of tightly woven mesh which prevent flies from penetrating, and consider features like detachable necks, belly flaps, and tail guards for full coverage. A close fit is vital to avoid flies sneaking under the rug, but balance this with the need to keep your horse cool in warmer weather.

Horses’ eyes are very sensitive and a common target for flies, which can lead to irritation, inflammation, and even conjunctivitis. Fly masks, veils, or fringes provide excellent eye protection, shielding delicate areas from flies and UV rays.

Topical repellents also help. Many contain citronella or Deet, which is effective but used cautiously as some horses may react to it. Try different sprays or creams to find one that suits your horse, and apply carefully to avoid their eyes and mucous membranes.

Providing Shade and Managing Turnout Times

Natural shade from trees or buildings offers respite from both sun and flies. If your field lacks shade, installing a field shelter near water points can keep your horse cooler and less exposed. Avoid turning horses out during dawn and dusk when biting midges are most active, opting instead for early morning or evening turnout in cooler conditions.

Protecting Against Sunburn

Horses with pink skin areas, especially on the muzzle or legs, are susceptible to sunburn, which can cause discomfort and affect feeding. Use a high-factor, water-resistant sunblock specially formulated for equines or children's sun cream (such as factor 50). Brightly coloured creams help ensure you cover all vulnerable spots.

Managing Sweet Itch: Prevention and Relief

Sweet itch is an allergic reaction to midge bites that causes intense itching and hair loss, particularly on manes, tails, forelocks, and the midline. Management is key. Boett rugs offer breathable, full-body protection even in hot weather, helping reduce biting midges’ impact.

Topical soothing creams like calamine or Sudocrem can ease itching, but avoiding exposure during peak midge times (dawn and dusk) is the best prevention. Veterinary advice might be needed in severe cases where antihistamines or corticosteroids can be considered with caution.

Regular Grooming and Monitoring Your Horse’s Skin Health

Daily grooming removes sweat, dirt, and loose hair that attract insects, and helps you monitor your horse’s skin. Look for early signs of irritation, sores, or hair loss, and treat promptly with suitable antiseptics or creams to prevent infection.

Useful Tips for Fly and Sun Protection

• Turn your horse out just after dark and bring it in at daybreak to reduce fly exposure and the need for rugs in hot weather.
• If your horse dislikes noisy aerosol sprays, use quieter pump-action dispensers or apply repellent with a sponge.
• Handle your horse in the stable rather than tied up outside during fly season to prevent injury from fly agitation.
• Consider homemade fly repellents, often shared on social media, which can be more cost-effective and sometimes more effective than commercial sprays.
• Use barrier creams like Sudocrem on sensitive areas such as the midline or sheath, especially following wet and warm weather that encourages midge activity.

With thoughtful preparation combining protective gear, shade, careful turnout timing, topical care, and attentive grooming, you can help your horse manage the challenges of flies and sunburn comfortably this summer.