Companion Animals

Companion Horse Sweet Itch Welfare Management

Management of sweet itch in horses, a severe allergic reaction to midge bites causing significant welfare deficit.

Key Facts

Sweet itch affects around 5% of UK horses and ponies
Culicoides midge bites cause intense pruritus and self-trauma in affected animals
Native pony breeds including Icelandic, Welsh, and Dartmoor are most susceptible
Fine-mesh fly rugs covering the whole body reduce midge exposure significantly
Immunotherapy is available and can reduce allergic sensitivity over time

Welfare Considerations

Sweet itch causes severe chronic welfare deficit through intense itching and self-inflicted wounds, and management requires combination of physical protection and medical treatment.

What You Can Do

Use fine-mesh sweet itch rugs from May to October for affected horses
Keep horses stabled during peak midge activity at dawn and dusk
Ask your vet about immunotherapy for horses with severe sweet itch