In this post, we’ll take a closer look at why it is so important to use fly repellents for horses. I will also list some of the best horse fly repellents available in the UAE to help keep your equine companion safe, healthy, and comfortable throughout the winter season.
As the weather gets cooler in the UAE, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential dangers that come with the season. One of the most common issues that horses face during the winter months in the region is the constant presence of flies and other biting insects.
While these pests may seem like a mere annoyance, they can actually have a significant impact on the health and well-being of your horse.
Why is it important to protect your horse from flies and insects?
Let’s go straight to the point. Fly protection is important for horses for several reasons:
Comfort first! Flies and other biting insects can cause discomfort and pain for horses. This can lead to restlessness, agitation, and even loss of appetite, which can negatively impact their overall well-being and performance.
Ensure a good health. Flies can also carry diseases and infections that can be harmful to horses. Some of the diseases transmitted by flies include equine infectious anemia, West Nile virus, and African horse sickness.
Avoid skin irritations. Biting insects can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in horses, leading to itching and potentially even open wounds. This can not only be uncomfortable for the horse but also increase the risk of infection.
Not compromise performance. Horses that are constantly bothered by flies and other biting insects may be less willing to work and perform, leading to a decrease in performance and overall productivity.
Fly protection for horses can come in many forms, including feed supplements, fly sprays & ointments. By providing effective fly protection, horse owners can help keep their horses comfortable, healthy, and performing at their best.
If you’re looking for additional ways to protect your horse from flies, be sure to check out our other article on fly protection gear. From fly masks and boots to fly sheets, there are many options available to keep your horse comfortable and healthy all season long.
List of diseases caused by flies or ticks in the Gulf Region
There are several diseases that can be caused in horses by flies or ticks in the Gulf Region. Here are some of the most common ones:
Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA):
EIA is a viral disease that is transmitted by blood-sucking insects, including horse flies and deer flies. The disease can cause fever, anemia, and can even be fatal in some cases. There is no cure for EIA, so prevention with horse fly repellents is key. Horses in the Gulf Region should be tested regularly for EIA, and strict biosecurity measures should be in place to prevent the spread of the disease.
West Nile Virus (WNV):
WNV is a viral disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. Horses infected with WNV can develop fever, neurological symptoms, and even die in severe cases. Vaccination is available for WNV, and horse owners in the Gulf Region should work with their veterinarian to develop a vaccination schedule that works best for their horse.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE):
EEE is a viral disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes. Horses infected with EEE can develop fever, neurological symptoms, and can die in severe cases. Thankfully, vaccination is available also for EEE.
Anaplasmosis:
Anaplasmosis is a bacterial disease that is transmitted by ticks. Horses infected with anaplasmosis can develop fever, anemia, and other symptoms. Treatment with antibiotics is available, but also in this case, prevention with horse fly repellents is key. As a horse owner, you should implement tick control measures, such as using tick repellents and regularly checking your horse for ticks.
Overall, when it comes to protecting horses from diseases transmitted by flies or ticks, prevention is key. Horse owners should work closely with their veterinarian to develop a comprehensive prevention plan that includes vaccination, regular testing, and control measures such as using fly repellents.
All kinds of fly repellents available on the market
When it comes to protecting horses from flies and ticks, there are a variety of options available. From feed and spray repellents to ointments and natural formulas, horse owners have many choices when it comes to keeping their horses healthy and comfortable. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the four most common types of repellents for horses, discussing their main ingredients, application methods, and effectiveness. Whether you’re dealing with pesky flies or dangerous ticks, this guide will help you choose the right repellent for your horse’s needs.
Feed-thru fly repellents:
First of all, what is a feed-thru fly repellent?
Feed-thru fly repellents are a type of insecticide that is added to a horse’s feed. The insecticide passes through the digestive system and is excreted in the manure. When flies lay their eggs in the manure, the insecticide contained in it prevents the larvae from developing, thus reducing the number of adult flies that could emerge.
Feed-thru fly repellents are used to interrupt the life cycle of the fly. When a female fly lays eggs in manure treated with the insecticide, the insecticide interferes with the normal development of the larvae, causing them to die before they can develop into adult flies.
The insecticide in feed-thru fly repellents typically has a long residual effect, which means that it continues to be effective for several weeks after being consumed by the animal. This helps to prevent a buildup of fly larvae in the manure, which can lead to a significant increase in adult fly populations.
It’s important to note that feed-thru fly repellents should not be the sole method of fly control. They are most effective when used in combination with other fly control measures, such as fly traps, and sprays.
Feed-thru fly repellents are mixed with a horse’s daily feed to repel flies and other biting insects. These products contain natural or synthetic ingredients that make the horse’s blood less palatable to flies. Some common ingredients found in feed-thru fly repellents include garlic, apple cider vinegar, and thiamine. The application dose and frequency can vary depending on the specific product, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Here you can find SimplyFly by Farnam in 3.75lbs or 10lbs format. This is for sure my favorite and most trusted brand. I’m not paid to say so!.
Spray fly repellents:
Spray fly repellents are one of the most common forms of fly protection for horses.
These products are applied directly to the horse’s coat to repel flies and other insects. They typically contain synthetic chemicals such as pyrethrins or permethrin, which are toxic to insects but generally safe for horses. Some spray repellents may also contain natural ingredients such as citronella or essential oils.
The application frequency can vary depending on the product and the severity of the fly problem, but it’s generally recommended to apply the spray daily or as needed.
Bronco Equi Fly Spray from my favorite brand is available in a 1-gallon size for bigger saving. It can be used to spray the horse’s coat or the barn surroundings. However, it’s crucial to avoid spraying it near your horse’s hay or feed.
Ultra Shield EX Fly Spray: One of the most effective fly repellents on the market, that protects your horse from more than 70 species of insects:
Ointment fly repellents:
Ointment fly repellents are similar to spray repellents, but are applied as a cream or ointment to specific areas of the horse’s body. These products are particularly useful for protecting sensitive areas such as the face and ears. They may contain similar ingredients to spray repellents, but are formulated to stick to the skin and provide longer-lasting protection. The application frequency can vary depending on the specific product and the severity of the fly problem.
I know firsthand how annoying it can be for horses to be constantly bothered by flies during training or trail rides, especially on the eyes. That’s why I want to share with you my go-to fly repellent ointment for horses – Farnam’s SWAT ointment.
In my experience, this is the only fly repellent ointment that’s widely recognized globally, and it’s especially effective for horses’ faces where fly sprays are not recommended. After 5 years of using it on my horses, I can confidently say that it’s the best solution out there to keep annoying flies at bay, even after a sweaty workout. To apply it, I typically focus on areas such as my horse’s forehead, muzzle, and ears, avoiding the area right above the eyes.
The SWAT ointment comes in two different formats, Clear and Pink, but I personally recommend the Clear formula as it’s easier to spread and blends in more seamlessly.
One thing to keep in mind is that during the summer months, the ointment can become more liquid than usual, so it’s important not to leave it out in direct sunlight.
Natural formulas:
Some horse owners prefer to use natural fly repellent formulas made from ingredients that are safe and non-toxic. These can be made at home using ingredients such as essential oils, vinegar, or herbal extracts. Natural fly repellents are generally gentler on a horse’s skin and may be a good choice for horses with sensitive skin or allergies to synthetic chemicals.
The application dose and frequency can vary depending on the specific formula, but it’s important to note that natural formulas may not be as effective as synthetic repellents and may need to be applied more frequently.
If you would like to opt for a natural option, here’s FlyFree Insect Repellent, a complete natural fly repellent made in the UAE!
For those who prefer natural solutions, be also sure to check out our other article on homemade fly repellents. Using ingredients like essential oils, vinegar, and herbs, you can create effective fly repellents without any harsh chemicals. We’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow recipes for all your fly-fighting needs.
It’s important to note that while fly repellents can be effective in reducing the presence of flies and other biting insects, they may not provide complete protection. Other measures such as fly sheets, fly masks, and regular stable cleaning may also be necessary to keep horses comfortable and healthy during fly season. When using any type of fly repellent, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and monitor your horse for any signs of skin irritation or other adverse reactions.
When it comes to protecting horses from flies, there are many options available, from commercial repellents to homemade remedies and fly gear. The most effective method for your horse may depend on a variety of factors, including your horse’s individual needs and your personal preferences. We encourage you to try different methods and find what works best for you and your horse.
So, what is your preferred method to fight flies for your horses?
Let us know in the comments!
