When is head shaking in summer more than just fly annoyance? | arlo.® Atlas

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

Head shaking in summer is often just a horse reacting to flies or midges, especially if it starts outdoors, improves indoors, or happens alongside stamping, tail swishing or face rubbing. That said, if the shaking is frequent, intense, or comes with other signs, there may be more going on than simple annoyance.

Common causes include fly irritation, sensitivity around the face or ears, sweat, dust, tack fit issues during exercise, or a skin problem around the head and ears. Less commonly, head shaking can be linked to pain, dental discomfort, a blocked nose, or a nerve-related issue, so it’s worth watching the pattern rather than assuming it’s only insects.

Things To Check

1. Note when it happens most, such as at turnout, during hacking, in bright sunlight, around dusk, or after grooming.

2. Look at the face, ears, nostrils and jaw for redness, swelling, crusts, discharge, broken skin or obvious rubbing.

3. Check whether the horse is also stamping, tail swishing, shaking the head while ridden, or trying to rub on fences or stable fittings.

4. See whether the horse settles in a fly-sheltered area, indoors, or when flies are less active.

5. Make sure the bridle, noseband, browband and headpiece are not rubbing or sitting unevenly.

6. Think about recent changes, such as new turnout times, warmer weather, dusty hay, new bedding, or a change in tack or routine.

7. Watch for other signs of discomfort, including a dropped ear, head tossing, resistance to contact, sneezing or nasal noise.

Common Causes

Fly and midge irritation is the most common reason in summer, especially around the ears, eyes and muzzle. Some horses are simply much more sensitive than others, and they may react strongly even when the insects seem minor.

Heat, sweat and dust can make the face feel itchy or uncomfortable, which can add to head shaking. Bright sunlight may also make some horses flick, shake or toss their heads more often.

Tack or equipment that rubs the poll, ears or nose can cause similar behaviour, particularly if the horse only does it when ridden.

If the shaking is persistent or happens away from fly pressure, other causes such as dental discomfort, nasal irritation, skin irritation, or a less common neurological or pain-related issue may need to be considered by a vet.

What To Do

Start by watching when the behaviour happens and how severe it is. A quick note on timing, location and any other signs can help you spot a pattern.

Reduce obvious fly pressure where you can by using shelter, turnout timing, and regular stable and field hygiene. Keeping the horse comfortable during the worst parts of the day can make a noticeable difference.

Check tack fit carefully if the head shaking happens under saddle. If anything looks uneven, tight or likely to rub, stop and adjust it before working the horse again.

Keep an eye on the skin around the face and ears. If you see redness, scabs or rubbing, gentle routine care may help keep the area clean and comfortable while you monitor for change.

When To Contact A Vet

Contact your vet if the head shaking is new and severe, keeps happening away from obvious fly pressure, or is accompanied by nasal discharge, facial swelling, signs of pain, poor performance, marked sensitivity, or any change that is getting worse. It’s also sensible to get advice if you suspect tack is not the cause but the behaviour is continuing.

Your vet can help work through possible causes and decide whether an eye, dental, respiratory, skin or nerve-related problem needs checking.

Products That May Help

For horses that react strongly to flies and midges in summer, a few practical management items can help support a calmer daily routine and make turnout or exercise more comfortable.

Horse Fly Sprays & Summer Care

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