Summer heat means one thing for many horses: insects. Flies, horseflies, and blackflies not only cause restlessness during grazing but can also lead to skin irritation or sweet itch in sensitive horses. We show you what signs you should know and what equipment truly protects.
How do you recognize if your horse is affected?
Typical first signs include increased rubbing of the mane crest and tail dock, restlessness during grazing, and small skin irritations in the head and mane area. Those who recognize these signs early can counteract them with the appropriate equipment before the skin becomes further irritated.
Head and eye protection
The head, eyes, and ears are the most sensitive areas for many horses. The EQUEST Ear Bonnet reliably protects against insects in the ear area and adapts well to the horse's head thanks to its bi-elastic ears. For more comprehensive protection of the eyes and face, a fly mask from our fly protection collection is suitable.
Full body protection for sweet itch
For horses with sweet itch, a normal fly sheet is often not enough – a particularly tightly woven, sturdy material is required here. The Culex C³ Eczema Rug offers full body protection in an Icelandic cut and is available with a mask, so the head area is also protected.
As an alternative for daily grazing, fly sheets like the AntiFly Pro or the Hybrid Rug are available – both including a neck section for additional protection in the transition to the head.
Quick checklist for summer
- Protect head and ear area with a fly veil or fly mask
- At the first signs of sweet itch, switch to tightly woven eczema rugs early
- Don't forget the neck section – this is where insects often attack
- Regularly check equipment for fit and damage, especially during daily grazing
With the right combination of head, neck, and body protection, your horse will get through the insect season more relaxed – and you'll save yourself unnecessary rubbing, restlessness, and skin problems.
Note: For persistent or severe skin reactions, additional veterinary clarification is recommended to rule out other causes.
