Summer is in full swing, and equestrians throughout the East Coast, Midwest and Pacific Northwest are rejoicing at the beautiful weather we’re now able to enjoy. Sorry to our friends in the scorching South and Southwest, stay cool down there!
While the sunshine and lack of snow or rain is great, it brings one major problem in a tiny package. Bugs. Deer flies. Gnats. Horse flies. Mosquitoes. Midges. Black-flies. Fleas. Ticks. So. Many. Bugs.
Not only are they irritating to keep away, but can cause serious issues in horses that have sensitive skin or are prone to breaking out. This can be a real headache for horse owners to deal with, especially when we’re spending our money on expensive fly spray, fly sheets and other bug deterrents.
We want our horses to enjoy this weather while it lasts, but how can we make that happen when an army of flying insects is constantly antagonizing them?
Here at COAT DEFENSE®, we’ve found a few ways to ease your summer ailments with our Powder and Paste. Read below to see how you can help keep your horse healthy, comfortable and happy this summer!
Sweet Itch in Horses
Sweet itch is the term used to describe equine insect hypersensitivity. This is a reaction to the insect saliva once it penetrates the skin, typically from swarms of tiny midges.
Signs of sweet itch usually appear 48-72 hours after being bitten, symptoms include…
Intense itchiness
Inflamed and red skin
Rubbing that causes hair loss, and crusty, weeping sores
Restlessness from chronic itch that causes weight loss and anxiousness
Recommended prevention routines include…
- Limited turnout
- Avoiding pasture time during dusk and dawn
- Use fly sheets and fly sprays
- Antihistamines or corticosteroids as needed