Insect Bites
Vet, Horse First Aid
From: Equestrian and Horse | Horse Ailments
Insect Bites
Biting insects can cause anything from a small raised lump to a more severe allergic reaction such as sweet itch ( also known as recurrent seasonal pruritus).
Horses at risk
Any horse can get bitten, grey horses are especially susceptible to sweet Itch which is the term used when a horse has an allergic reaction to the saliva produced by midges biting the skin causing the more extreme skin itching to occur.
Symptoms
- Raised lumps on the surface of the skin.
- Sores on the surface of the skin.
- Itching of the skin
- Bald patches.
- Bleeding bald patches.
- Itching of the mane and tail.
Treatment
Horses who suffer from reactions to insect bites can be helped by careful management during the spring and summer months when the insects are at their worst.
- Keeping your horse stabled during times when insects are at their worst.
- Wearing a fly rug to cover up the susceptible skin.
- Using insect repellant.
- Keep in contact with your vet for any new treatment developments that may be appropriate.
- Turn your horse out away from heavily infested areas such as next to a stream, lake or near cattle.
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