Sweet itch is an intensely pruritic allergic skin condition caused by Culicoides midge bites. It causes severe self-trauma and significantly impacts quality of life for affected horses.
Sweet itch causes one of the most prolonged welfare insults in horses, lasting throughout the midge season from April to October. The intense pruritus drives horses to rub compulsively against posts, fences, and trees until skin is severely damaged and infected. Year-after-year recurrence causes progressive skin thickening and coat damage. Comprehensive management using full-coverage rug protection during peak midge hours, insect repellents, antihistamines, and prednisolone during flares reduces suffering substantially.