26/11/2025
We are getting to that time of year again when our itchy horses are starting to settle thanks to the sudden drop in temperature!
This is the time of year that we like to plan our management of sweet itch with the very unpredictable British weather.
- Invest in a good quality fly rug so they are ready BEFORE the season changes, normally between March and November, but the condition can effect horses all year round. Ensuring the rug isn’t too hot/heavy is important as this can aggravate these itchy horses more.
- Look at and stock up on good fly repellents (we appreciate there are many to look through).
- Dawn and dusk is when midges are most active, so often stabling overnight can be beneficial. Some people even put fly curtains over the stables to reduce them getting in, or fans to keep the air moving!
- Plan your summer grazing location – trying to stay as far away from open water sources is vital as midges are attracted to this environment, and fields with good air flow also helps.
- Although there is no cure for sweet itch there is medication that can help decrease the severity and control the itch. There is a vaccine produced for ringworm which has been found to help in the management of sweet itch symptoms in a number of cases. This is needed to be done BEFORE the sweet itch season starts and symptoms start to present, so if you wish to discuss this further please do get in touch.
If you have any questions about being prepared for the itch risk this year please call the office on 01625912178 or email [email protected].
