What Is A Sweet Itch Rug?
|
|
Time to read 2 min
|
|
Time to read 2 min
Sweet Itch in horses is an allergic reaction to the bites of midges and it’s symptoms include itching at the neck, mane and tail. Itchiness can lead to intense rubbing and scratching which often results in the horse being affected by hair loss, inflamed skin and sores.
One of the best ways to prevent or manage Sweet Itch is to start using a Sweet Itch fly rug in early spring before the first midges start to appear. Sweet Itch fly rugs are a useful preventative measure as they often have a neck with ear holes, belly flap and large tail flap which provide excellent coverage. They are also usually made from fabric that has a finer weave than fly rugs, so they help prevent midges biting through the rug.
Our Best Sweet Itch Rugs For Horses
Highlander Plus Sweet-itch Combo Rug
The Highlander Plus Sweet-itch Combo Rug is one of our best rugs for preventing or managing Sweet Itch in horses. It’s made from durable fabric which offers effective protection against all biting insects, including midges and flies.
The rug has a grazing-friendly elongated neck with ear holes, a belly flap and large pleated tail flap to keep the body, neck and poll covered at all times. For additional comfort, the hardwearing fabric offers up to 90% UV blocking to prevent sunburn and sun bleaching.
Tempest Plus Sweet-itch Combo Rug
Another great choice for managing Sweet Itch is the Tempest Plus Sweet-itch Combo Rug. This rug offers generous coverage and provides an effective barrier against midge and fly bites.
The Tempest Plus Sweet-itch Combo Rug has an integrated contour neck, belly flap and an extended tail flap. Thoughtfully designed, the ErgoFit neck cover and rug are cut from one piece of fabric and then lined to enhance comfort and prevent friction rubs at the neck area, spine and chest.
Additional Ways To Manage Sweet Itch
Fly Masks for Sweet Itch
Close-fitting fly masks offer an additional way to enhance comfort and provide fly protection. The FlyGuard Pro Stretch Fly Mask is an ideal choice for coverage at the eyes, ears and poll as it provides protection against flies and biting insects.
Fly Boots for Horses
Another way to provide extra coverage is by using fly boots as these help keep flies and biting insects away from the legs. The ARMA Fly Boots are a great option as they are ergonomically shaped, provide fly protection and offer excellent air flow.
Shampoos for Sweet Itch
Soothing shampoos, such as the EZI-GROOM Anti-itch Shampoo, are often useful for Sweet Itch management as they can help reduce itching and improve skin condition.
