Got Allergies?

Got-Horse-Allergies-15-169

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Text-only version of “Got Allergies?”

Signs your horse has allergies

  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Hairless patches
  • Inflamed skin
  • Coughing
  • Head shaking
  • Nasal drainage
  • Runny eyes

List of potential allergens:

  • Insect bites (midges, flies and mosquitoes are at the top of the list of irritating insects)
  • Grass, weeds, tree pollen
  • Dust and molds from hay, bedding and animal dander
  • Aerosols and volatile chemicals used around the barn
  • Feed ingredients and additives (less common)
  • Contact dermatitis from boots, tack and other equipment

To reduce respiratory allergies

Improve your horse’s environment

  • Change to a less irritating bedding.
  • Reduce mold and dust levels in hay.
  • Ensure superior ventilation in arenas, barns and trailers.
  • Keep horses stabled when pollen counts are high or airborne irritants are present.

Management tips

  • Remove sensitive horses when cleaning stalls and blowing aisles.
  • Store hay and bedding in another building to reduce dust and mold.
  • Mow pastures to stop weeds and grass pollen from forming.
  • Scatter hay out instead of feeding in a pile.

To reduce skin allergies

Barriers reduce exposure

  • Fly sheets
  • Screened-in barns
  • Sprays and creams

Management tips

  • Keep horses stabled during peak insect activity in early morning and evening.
  • Use fans to ensure good air flow that will keep biting insects away.
  • Apply recommended shampoos and creams that soothe skin and reduce itching.
  • Discontinue the use of possible irritants.

Contribute™ Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to reduce skin inflammation and mitigate allergic response. Contribute delivers both plant and marine sources of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Feed one to two ounces per day, depending on severity of the allergy.

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