Sweet itch season is here – and if you’ve ever watched your horse relentlessly rub their mane, tail, or belly until it’s raw, you’ll know just how frustrating (and painful) it can be for them. In this post, we’ll explore how to treat sweet itch in horses naturally so you can help your horse stay comfortable all summer long.
But don’t worry – there are ways to help manage it naturally and effectively. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Sweet Itch?
Sweet itch – also known as seasonal allergic dermatitis – is a reaction to midge bites, particularly from Culicoides midges. These tiny flying insects tend to be most active from spring through autumn, especially in warm, damp weather.
When a horse is allergic to the midge’s saliva, their immune system overreacts, leading to intense itching, inflammation, and even hair loss.
Common Signs of Sweet Itch
Constant rubbing of the mane, tail, belly, or ears
Bald patches or broken hairs
Scabby, thickened skin
Restlessness or irritability during peak midge hours (early morning & dusk)
Natural Ways to Help Your Horse
Managing sweet itch often means combining a few different strategies. If you’re wondering how to treat sweet itch in horses naturally, here’s what we’ve found really helps:
1. Repel Midges Before They Bite
Keeping midges off your horse in the first place is half the battle. Use a natural, skin-safe topical that deters insects and soothes the skin at the same time. Sprays, rubs, or shampoos with strong-smelling essential oils or herbal extracts are ideal.
2. Support Skin Health from the Inside Out
Healthy skin is more resilient and less reactive. A natural feed supplement packed with skin-loving oils can help reduce sensitivity, strengthen the skin barrier, and promote a shiny coat.
3. Stable Smartly
Midges are most active around still water, during dawn and dusk. If you can, bring your horse into the stable during those hours, or fit them with a fine-mesh fly rug and hood to protect exposed areas.
4. Keep It Clean
Wash itchy areas with a gentle, natural cleanser to remove sweat, irritants, and any allergens. Avoid harsh shampoos or chemicals that could strip the skin’s natural oils.
Our Go-To Combo: The Ultimate Summer Horse Pack
If you’re looking for a simple but effective way to support your horse through the sweet itch season, our Ultimate Summer Horse Pack has you covered.
It combines:
Original Stinky Stuff – a topical blend that repels midges and soothes irritated skin
Non-Stinky Stuff – a 100% natural feed-safe oil that nourishes the skin from within
Together, they help manage itching, promote healthy skin and coat, and create a barrier against pesky insects – without any harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Sweet itch can be a challenge, but with the right tools and a bit of consistency, you can make a big difference to your horse’s comfort and wellbeing.
If you’ve got any questions or need help choosing the right products, just give us a shout – we’re always here to help.