STABLE MANNERS

by Nicola Markwell

As the Summer approaches, it's important to watch out for one particularly nasty affliction that can affect your horse or pony at this time of year – sweet itch.

Far from being sweet, sweet itch can be a nightmare for both horse and owner. The condition is an allergy to the bites of certain midges and stimulates an overreaction in the horse’s body. This can result in a variety of symptoms, the most obvious of which is intense itchiness, which can lead to obsessive scratching on every available surface. That’s bad enough, but those with severe sweet itch can easily scratch themselves till they bleed and this can lead to secondary problems with flies and/or infections.

All horses and ponies should be looked over thoroughly every day to check for signs of scratching, irritation or hair loss. Check underneath the mane and around the base of the tail particularly carefully. Soothing any troubled spots with a specific sweet itch lotion can help break the cycle early.

Special rugs can make a real difference to sweet itch sufferers by creating a barrier that prevents insects from having access to the horse’s skin. The rugs have very small holes that allow for circulation of air to help keep the horse cool. It is important to remove the rug once a day to check underneath. The horse will probably appreciate a good groom as well to compensate for the inability of itself or companions to groom naturally. Use a soft brush to avoid aggravating the sensitive skin.

Sweet itch sufferers should never be grazed on marshy land during the warmer weather as this will be a haven for midges. The horse will also particularly benefit from a field shelter where they can escape the insects. Providing water and some food within the shelter will allow the horse to spend as much time as they wish in the shade without being driven out by hunger or thirst.

Even for those horses that do not suffer from sweet itch may have severe problems during the Summer with flies. For many they are merely an annoyance but they can also cause real problems. For example, if sensitive eyes water in bright sunlight, the liquid attracts flies, which further irritates the area and, if the cycle is not broken, the area can become inflamed and even infected. Fly masks are available which may cover just the eyes and ears or cover the whole head. Flies can also be a real problem if the horse sustains even small cuts and grazes as the irritation caused by the flies will hamper the healing process and may even lead to a secondary infection.

For more advice on horse care through the Summer months, or any aspect of horse management, click here or telephone the Redwings Welfare team on 01508 481000.