Sweet Itch

Sweet itch is a condition involving inflammation of the skin as a result of an allergic reaction. Also known as Summer Seasonal Recurrent Dermatitis, it is caused by a biting midge called Culicoides, with the allergic reaction caused by a reaction to the saliva of the female midge. In many cases of sweet itch, your horse will become itchy along the back, especially around the mane and tail. In extreme cases, the horse can rub itself raw trying to relieve the itching. Susceptible horses usually develop the condition for the first time as youngsters and, once it has occurred, the horse will continue to suffer from it.

Control of sweet itch

Although there is no known cure for sweet itch, it is possible to manage it to a degree by applying an insect repellent regularly and carefully assessing whether you horse develops a reaction to it. If the skin happens to be sore or broken due to sweet itch, do not apply any form of insect repellent and seek veterinary advice immediately. It is also advisable to be wary on mild, humid, and still days, as this is when midges are most active. Keep your horse in the stable or under shelter during this time period.  Additionally, special sweet itch rugs can be bought that cover the horse from poll to tail. They can be worn in or out of the stable and can help to stop the midges getting access to the skin while also stopping your horse from rubbing. 

How To Feed Your Sweet Itch Horse

When it comes to the diet of your horse, you must be mindful as to what horse food you allow them to eat.  Sweet itch can be supported by giving your horse feed with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which can reduce the adverse reaction to the midges, and flax. Some horses may also be suffering from vitamin or mineral deficiencies that can aggravate inflammatory and allergic reactions. If this is the case, try feeding your horse food with magnesium, zinc and copper, selenium, and Vitamin E.

Garlic is a great sources of selenium and sulphur, and some people believe adding garlic to the horse feed helps to keep midges away. The sweat produced by a horse fed on garlic has been known to emit an odour that keeps midges away.

Clinical Symptoms of Sweet Itch

If you suspect your horse may have sweet itch, you should contact your veterinarian immediately to ensure your horse gets the treatment it deserves. Horses predominantly present signs of sweet itch at the base of the mane and tail, and on the face.

Signs include:

• Intense itchiness – This will be evident if your horse is rubbing itself against objects around it or rolling on the grass in order to scratch.
• Hair loss – This can occur through scratching and the skin can become visibly inflamed, crusty and sore, with broken skin potentially leading to infection.
• Vigorous tail swishing – Your horse may do this as it attempts to keep the midges away.
• Excessive mutual grooming from field companions.
• Thickened skin – folds develop and the hair becomes sparse and coarse with flaky dandruff.
• Change behaviour – lethargic, agitated, restless  or impatient, with a lack of concentration when ridden