Is Sweet Itch Driving Your Horse Crazy?
Summer seasonal recurrent dermatitis (SSRD) or sweet itch, is caused by an allergic reaction to the saliva of the Culicoides midge (“no-see-ums”). These bothersome fellows are active from April through October.
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The Culprit
Summer seasonal recurrent dermatitis (SSRD) or sweet itch, is caused by an allergic reaction to the saliva of the Culicoides midge (“no-see-ums”). These bothersome fellows are active from April through October.
The Symptoms
Sweet itch symptoms are hard to miss! Horses will constantly rub to relieve the intense itching.
Early Phase – The skin will become red and inamed, and devoid of hair. Crusting and weeping sores may be present.
Chronic Phase – The skin will thicken, blacken and become wrinkled. Sparse, course hair may be present.
Start Treatment and Preventative Measures – The Sooner The Better.
Rubbing damages tails and manes quickly!
• Circulate the air with ceiling and stall fans.
• Keep water tanks clean and filled with fresh water.
• Use insecticides and repellents to kill gnats and keep them off your horse.
• Contact your vet and ask about corticosteroid and antihistamine treatments.
• Keep horses stalled during the peak bug activity – an hour prior to and after dawn and dusk.
• Use a fly sheet with tail flap and hood to cover vulnerable areas.
• Coat the itchy area daily with an oily substance, like baby oil or Skin So Soft. Midges don’t like the oily film and will avoid it.
Supportive Supplements:
Supports reduced skin inammation and aids in mitigating allergic responses in horses that have hives or skin allergies.
Elevate® Natural Vitamin E
Supports a strong immune system in horses of all ages.
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