Sweet itch is the great summer skin torment for many horses — a hypersensitivity that can let itching take over the whole season if it gets established. Here we cover how to recognise the signs early, which preventive measures make the biggest difference and how to care for the skin through the season.
What is sweet itch?
Sweet itch is a hypersensitivity reaction to the saliva of biting midges, the small mosquito-like insects that swarm at dawn and dusk from May to September. In sensitive horses the bite triggers intense itching — above all in the mane, tail root and along the belly line — and as the horse rubs, bare, chafed patches appear that can become sore.
Which horses are affected?
All breeds can be affected, but Icelandic horses (especially imported ones), Shetland ponies and other hardy breeds are over-represented. Sensitivity is individual and tends to return every season, often starting earlier each year.
How to spot it early
Pay attention as early as May: the horse starts rubbing more than usual against fences and trees, the mane looks ruffled at the root, and the tail root shows broken, short hairs. The earlier you act, the calmer the season.
Preventive measures — where the big difference is made
1. Eczema rug in time — put the rug on early in the season, before the itching is established, and keep it on throughout midge season.
2. Plan turnout — midges are most active at dawn and dusk; stabling during these hours reduces exposure dramatically.
3. Choose windy paddocks — midges are weak fliers and avoid wind; elevated, open paddocks beat sheltered hollows.
4. Avoid standing water — midges hatch in damp environments; paddocks near marshes and ponds are high-risk zones.
5. Approved insect repellents — use commercially approved repellents according to instructions as a complement to rug and environment.
Caring for the skin through the season
Keep exposed areas clean with gentle washing when needed — over-washing dries out and makes things worse. Moisturise and support the skin barrier with mild, caring products, and keep chafed areas under observation so they do not become sore. Carefully trim away tangles so the skin gets air.
Contact your veterinarian for intense itching not eased by preventive measures, open or weeping sores, signs of infection or if the horse’s general condition is affected — your vet can assess which treatment options suit your horse.
Caring products for the season
In our skin care range you will find mild products for sensitive skin — such as our gentle Propolis Shampoo bar and caring salves that support the natural skin barrier through a demanding season.
This guide is general knowledge and does not replace your veterinarian’s assessment of your horse.