Sweet Itch

Symptoms

Lesions appear on the mane and base of the tail, and sometimes the neck and shoulder. The skin becomes thickened and irritated and horses can often be seen rubbing the affected areas on trees and posts. A serum may be secreted and the hair is worn away becoming thin and tufted. The skin becomes scaly and ridged with sores and ulcers on it. Occurs usually in summer months when there are warmer days.

Cause

Thought to be caused by a reaction to the saliva of midges.

Treatment

Corticosteroids and antihistamines can be used to prevent the reaction although need to be applied regularly. Benzyl benzoate and coat tar lotions also need to be applied daily. The horse can be stabled and nets put up to prevent the midges from being able to bite it, and this can be done during the late afternoon to early morning when the midges are most likely to bite. Insecticides can be applied and head straps and other clothing are also available. Research is being done into a vaccine which will prevent the reaction.

Please remember this information is provided as a guide only and professional advice should be sought before any diagnosis or treatment is applied.