Sweet itch (insect bite hypersensitivity) is a severely welfare-compromising allergic condition in horses caused by hypersensitivity to Culicoides midge bites. Effective management improves quality of life substantially.
Sweet itch causes extreme suffering - the sensation drives affected horses to rub against any available surface until they cause severe skin damage, hair loss, and open wounds. Without management, the condition profoundly impairs quality of life from spring through autumn each year. Effective management is demanding - requiring full-body protection, stabling during midge activity, and consistent application of deterrent products - but dramatically reduces suffering. Sweet itch should be considered when purchasing horses in areas with high Culicoides populations, as the condition significantly increases the management burden and welfare responsibility.