It sounds like an oxymoron if there ever was one. Sweet itch is hardly satisfying for horses – it’s a discomforting itch that comes from insect bites, causing horses to rub away patches of hair, leaving the skin raw and sore. It’s a common issue in the spring and summer, and you’ll want to be mindful of it because it’s not a fun condition. Fortunately, it can be treated and prevented.
What causes sweet itch?
Sweet itch is equine insect hypersensitivity, or more simply a severe allergic reaction to the saliva of biting insects. Bites come from culicoides midges, gnats, backflies, or deer flies. No matter where you live, you probably have one or more of these in your area. If you live near water or in hot, humid conditions, there’s a good chance for this situation to manifest even more.
Noticing it
You can find reactions just about anywhere on the body, but it’s most often seen on the areas where insects bite, such as the underside of the belly, ears, or under the mane. If you notice skin that’s swollen, tender and inflamed, it could be a sign of sweet itch. You’ll also see the horse rubbing himself constantly by violently scratching on objects just to get relief. He may even spend more time scratching than eating. It’s not uncommon for the horse to rub off hair in doing so and causing skin damage. Such behavior can make the area become infected. Less than 10 percent of horses develop sweet itch.
Treating it
Veterinarians may offer antihistamines and corticosteroids. Meanwhile, there is ongoing research to create immunotherapy treatment for sweet itch. Because treating it is more difficult, most recommend simple prevention to reduce the chances of this occurring.
Preventing it
Reducing your horse’s exposure to insects is your best bet. Insects are most active at dusk and dawn so keep your horse in his stall during those hours, if possible. Putting screens and fans into stalls can help, as can spray repellent made for walls and surfaces. Keeping your horse covered, or fly spray keeps insects away. Fly masks, fly sheets and blankets always help. Keeping horses away from watery areas is a benefit, too.