Skin parasites including mange mites, lice, and bot flies cause significant welfare harm to horses that is often preventable with routine care.
Horses with sarcoptic mange experience constant intense pruritus that prevents rest and normal behaviour. Secondary infections from self-trauma worsen welfare. Sweet itch causes seasonal allergic responses requiring management throughout the midge season. Bot larvae attaching to the mouth and migrating to the stomach cause irritation and potential mucosal damage. Regular parasite monitoring and targeted treatment protect horse welfare while reducing anthelmintic resistance development.