SIX TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR HORSE FROM NUISANCE FLIES
A fly control strategy that bites back on every front is essential to keep nuisance flies at bay and horses and ponies comfortable in the stable and at grass this season.
That’s according to Nettex’s equine specialist Serena Kidd, who has seen flies out in force on yards across the country since early autumn
“The mild winter meant flies emerged early this year and are now truly out in force. At best, flies are an annoyance, but at worse they can cause distress and transmit disease so it’s essential to take a holistic approach to fly control on any yard and get on top of the issue quickly,” she says.
Biting flies, such as Horse flies, midges and Black flies feed on animal blood and can be extremely painful, illicit allergic reactions and spread disease. Black flies for example may have a role to play in spreading sarcoids on a horse’s body. Non-biting flies feed on bodily secretions like mucus and cause intense irritation.
“Midges are perhaps the most irritating of them all, swarming and biting horses particularly in the main, tail and belly region,” Serena says. “Some develop hypersensitivity to midge saliva causing Sweet Itch with intense itching, broken skin and crusty lesions.”
To prevent fly irritation, Serena advises horse owners think about the following:
- Think about when and where you graze
Avoid grazing around ponds, streams and waterways that are more prone to biting insects. Midges thrive in damp areas near water and hedgerows. Also, try to avoid grazing at dawn and dusk when midges are most active.
- Consider using a well-fitted fly sheet and fly mask.
“If you’re seeing your horse constantly swishing its tail, stamping feet or rubbing, then these are good indicators they could benefit from a fly rug,” Serena explains.
Grey horses with pink or white, sensitive skin, clipped horses and Sweet Itch sufferers are particularly likely to benefit. Fly masks are also a must for preventing eye irritation from insects and sun exposure.
“If your horse is particularly sensitive, it might be worth investing in fly ear veils and/or nose nets that can be worn whilst riding to prevent headshaking and keep your horse more relaxed,” Serena adds.
- Use an appropriate fly repellent to keep flies at bay, focusing on legs, bellies and the face.
Opt for a long-lasting fly control product that’s effective against biting and non-biting insects. For example, Nettex Fly Repellent Advanced is DEET-based and includes added moisturisers and conditioners to help with longevity. If your horse is not keen on sprays, consider using a fly control cream like Nettex Summer Fly Cream, which is DEET- based and easy to apply around sensitive areas like the eyes and nose.
In horses prone to itchy skin, applying Nettex Summer Freedom salve can help combat insects and biting flies, and halt the never-ending itch, scratch, rub cycle.
- Focus on hygiene
Poo-pick regularly in stables and paddocks to remove fly breeding grounds and keep muck heaps away from stables.
Serena adds: “Bathing and quick washes after exercise to remove sweat, dirt and grease are also crucial to reduce fly and midge irritation but always reapply fly control products after washing.”
- Consider using zebra patterned sheets to deter flies.
Striped, spotted and white coats (or rugs) reflect depolarised light, which is less attractive to Horse flies which prefer polarised light reflected by dark skin. “Always remember to keep rugs and masks clean as flies and midges will be attracted to grease, sweat, urine and faeces,” Serena adds.
- Think about fly control in and around stables
Midges will fly into stables (unlike horseflies which don’t like shade) so fly rugs can be worn when your horse or pony is housed, as well as in the field.
“Consider using a fan outside stables to prevent midges from entering. Midges have tiny wings so they struggle to fly in winds over 7mph,” Serena explains.
>>Find out about our fly control products via at nettexequine.com/range/fly-control