Types of Pests that Bother Horses
Horses can be plagued by a variety of annoying and damaging pests. Knowing what pests afflict horses and the problems they cause can help horse owners better control these nuisances. Some of the most common horse pests include:
Flies
Flies are likely the most prevalent pest for horses. Different fly species that may pester horses include:
- Stable flies - Bite horses to feed on blood. Their bites are painful and can transmit diseases.
- Horse flies - Large flies with very painful bites that extract blood from horses.
- Bot flies - Lay eggs on horse hair that hatch into larvae that burrow into the horse's skin.
- Horn flies - Small flies that cluster around horses and feed on blood, sweat and tears.
- House flies - Annoy horses by landing on them to feed on secretions and excretions.
Ticks
Ticks are small external parasites that embed into a horse's skin to feed on blood. Problems caused by ticks include:
- Tick bites can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Ticks can spread tick paralysis toxins that can cause paralysis and even death in horses.
- Heavy tick infestations can cause skin irritation, wounds and hair loss.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes feed on horse blood and cause the following issues:
- Their bites can transmit West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis and other diseases.
- Some horses have strong reactions to mosquito saliva that results in hives, bite hypersensitivity and other allergic symptoms.
- Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk when horses are often ridden, making them a nuisance to both horses and riders.
Lice
Two types of lice may live on horses:
- Biting lice feed on skin debris, hair and sometimes blood. They cause itching, rubbing and hair loss.
- Sucking lice pierce the skin and feed on blood. They cause mild itching and can transmit equine anemia.
Mites
Mites that infest horses include:
- Scabies mites burrow into the skin and cause severe itching, rubbing and hair loss.
- Chorioptic mange mites cause itchy skin lesions on horse legs and base of mane and tail.
- Psoroptic mites inhabit horse ears and cause crusty, scabby lesions.
Knowing the types of external parasites that commonly infest horses allows for better prevention and treatment of these problematic pests.
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Common Horse Pest Control Products
Controlling pests is an essential part of properly caring for horses. There are many effective products available to help manage all types of horse pests. Some common horse pest control products include:
Fly Sprays
Fly sprays provide temporary protection from biting and nuisance flies:
- Pyrethrin-based sprays - Pyrethrins are botanical insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers.
- Permethrin sprays - A synthetic pyrethroid insecticide, safe for horses.
- Essentria IC3 - Made from rosemary oil and geraniol extract.
Fly Sheets
Tightly woven mesh fly sheets protect horses from flies biting their body:
- Nylon or polyester fly sheets
- Special coats for horse blankets
Tick and Mosquito Repellents
Repellents discourage ticks and mosquitoes from biting horses:
- DEET repellents - Applied to the horse’s body, not to exceed 10% concentration.
- Permethrin repellents - Applied to horse’s legs and head.
- Plant-based repellents with citronella, lemongrass or geraniol.
Lice and Mite Shampoos
Medicated shampoos kill and prevent lice and mites:
- Pyrethrin shampoos
- Neem oil shampoos
- Microbe lift lice and itch relief shampoo
Stable Pest Control Systems
Barn-wide systems help control flies, mosquitoes and other pests:
- Automated misting systems
- Fly predators like wasps and beetles
- Zappers and traps
- Larvicides and insect growth regulators
Using the right products for the specific pests bothering a horse provides the best control with minimal environmental impact.
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Tick and Mosquito Repellents for Horses
Ticks and mosquitoes can transmit dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and equine encephalitis to horses. Using effective repellents is an important way to reduce biting insects and the health risks they pose. There are several types of repellents designed to deter ticks and mosquitoes from feeding on horses.
DEET
DEET is considered the most effective mosquito repellent. Some key facts about using DEET on horses:
- DEET can be safely applied to horses when diluted to 10% concentration or less.
- It should only be applied to the horse’s body, not near eyes, nostrils or lips.
- DEET must be reapplied frequently when horses sweat.
- Popular horse DEET products contain 10% DEET in sprays or wipes.
Permethrin
Permethrin is a synthetic repellent and insecticide effective against many biting insects. For horses, permethrin should only be applied to the lower legs, shoulders, and neck:
- Permethrin binds strongly to fabric and hair and lasts 4-6 weeks on horses.
- It should not be used under tack or blankets, only on hair coat.
- Common trade names for equine permethrin products include Durvet Permectrin CDS and Absorbine UltraShield.
Natural Repellents
Natural repellents derived from plant oils are also available:
- Citronella, cedar, lemongrass, peppermint, and geraniol are proven to have insect-repelling properties.
- These plant oils are popular ingredients in sprays, wipes, shampoos, and feed supplements.
- Some examples are Absorbine Ultrashield EX, Eqyss Marigold Spray, and Farnam Endure Fly Spray.
Limitations
There are some limitations to be aware of when using repellents on horses:
- No repellent is 100% effective for extended periods, so reapplication is key.
- DEET and permethrin can be toxic if overapplied or ingested.
- Natural repellents may need more frequent reapplication.
- Repellents should always be used according to label directions.
When shopping for tick and mosquito repellents, look for products formulated specifically for horses. Consulting your vet can also provide guidance on the safest, most effective options for your horse.
Lice and Mite Shampoos for Horses
Lice and mites are common external parasites that live on horses and cause irritation, itching, and skin problems. Using medicated shampoos is an effective way to not only treat active infestations, but also help prevent future ones. Some top options include:
Pyrethrin Shampoos
Pyrethrins are insecticidal compounds derived from chrysanthemum flowers. For horses:
- Pyrethrin shampoos kill all life stages of lice and mites on contact.
- Active ingredients include pyrethrin extract and piperonyl butoxide.
- Brands like Equitrol and Deosect Horse Spray contain pyrethrins.
- Safe for regular bathing when used as directed.
Neem Oil Shampoos
Neem oil comes from the seeds of the neem tree. Key facts:
- Neem oil kills parasites and deters reinfestation for up to 2 weeks.
- It smells pleasant and is gentle on horse skin.
- Brands like Absorbine UltraShield II contain neem oil.
- Best for mild infestations and prevention.
Microbe Lift Lice Itch Relief
This shampoo contains natural enzymes from yeast and thymol:
- Microbe lift shampoo kills lice, mites, and fungus on horses.
- The enzymes break down the exoskeletons of the parasites.
- Thymol soothes itchy skin caused by the infestations.
- Safe for frequent bathing.
Tips for Use
- Wet horse’s coat thoroughly before lathering the shampoo over entire body.
- Let shampoo soak 5-10 minutes then rinse well.
- For heavy infestations, treat weekly for 4 weeks.
- Wear gloves and avoid contact with horse's eyes.
Always follow label directions carefully when using lice and mite shampoos. Rotating between chemical and natural shampoos can help prevent parasites from developing resistance to any single product.
Stable Pest Control Systems
Keeping horses pest-free requires controlling insects and parasites both on the animals themselves as well as in the stable and surrounding areas. Implementing an integrated pest management plan using various stable pest control systems can help horse owners manage different types of pests.
Automated Misting Systems
Automated misters work to control flying insects in the barn area:
- Nozzle heads mounted inside the stable release short bursts of pesticide at set intervals.
- Usually use pyrethrins or pyrethroids as active ingredients.
- Can be programmed for times when insects are most active.
- Reduce need for spraying pesticides by hand.
Fly Predators
Natural fly predator insects can be purchased and released to reduce fly populations:
- Predatory wasps feed on fly pupae to disrupt breeding.
- Beetles devour fly eggs and larvae before they mature.
- Must be replenished regularly as they have short life spans.
Traps
Different traps help control flies, mosquitoes, and other pests:
- Sticky fly paper or ribbons catch flying insects.
- UV light traps lure mosquitoes and flies in.
- Bag traps for external parasites on horses like bot flies.
Larvicides
Larvicides target immature insect life stages:
- Used in manure, bedding, and standing water to disrupt breeding.
- Common active ingredients are insect growth regulators and bacteria.
- Most effective when used together with adult insect control.
A comprehensive IPM program using a combination of these systems provides thorough stable pest control with minimal risks.
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Natural Horse Pest Control Methods
In addition to traditional pesticides and medications, there are various natural options horse owners can use to control pesky insects, parasites, and flies that irritate horses. Some natural approaches include:
Herbal Fly Repellents
Herbal ingredients can be used to make safe, effective fly repellents:
- Essential oils like citronella, tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender, pennyroyal
- Extracts from neem trees, garlic, and chrysanthemums
- Can be formulated into sprays, wipes, shampoos, or salves
Feed-Through Supplements
Some herbal supplements added to a horse's feed help repel insects:
- Garlic and garlic juice deter flies and mosquitoes
- Diatomaceous earth kills internal parasites
- Apple cider vinegar balances pH of the skin
Beneficial Insects
Good bugs can help control bad bugs:
- Lady bugs, dragonflies, lightning bugs - Help eat mosquitoes
- Wasps - Feed on flies
- Nematodes - Destroy manure-breeding larvae
Stable Sanitation
Good barn hygiene practices help reduce pests:
- Remove manure frequently
- Drain standing water
- Use feeders designed to minimize waste
- Clean and disinfect surfaces
Natural pest control methods take an environmentally friendly approach to managing annoying insects while supporting horse health.
What is the Benefit of Amazon Prime for Horse Pest Control Products?
Horse owners know how frustrating it can be to have flies, ticks, mosquitoes and other pests constantly bothering your horses. Finding the right pest control products to keep these nuisances at bay is essential. For those with an Amazon Prime membership, ordering effective horse insecticides, repellents, traps and other solutions can be done with free fast shipping and other perks.
Free Two-Day Shipping
One of the biggest benefits of Amazon Prime is free two-day shipping on millions of eligible products. When your horse is being tormented by biting flies or has a sudden lice infestation, you don't want to wait long for your pest control shipment to arrive. With Prime's fast free delivery, you can quickly get the fly sprays, medicated shampoos, traps and other items you need to eliminate the pests and give your horse relief.
Free One-Day and Same-Day Delivery
For Prime members, one-day and same-day delivery options are also available for certain products and locations. This is extremely helpful when you run out of fly spray or find yourself in need of an emergency pest treatment to soothe your horse's irritated skin. You can order in the morning and have the product on hand that evening or even within hours.
Free Release-Date Delivery
When awaiting the launch of new advanced horse pest control products, Prime members can get free release-date delivery. This ensures you'll have the latest fly traps, equine insecticides and other items right when they become available before backorders occur.
Try Before You Buy
Amazon Prime allows you to try out eligible pest control products before committing to a full purchase. This is great for testing new fly repellents, shampoos or treatments to find which work best on your particular horses and barn before investing in larger quantities.
Taking advantage of these Prime benefits can make shopping for effective horse pest solutions much more convenient, quick and affordable.
Protect Your Horse From Flies This Summer
Protecting your horse from flies during summer is important to ensure their comfort and health. Here are some tips and products that can help:
