Why is my horse biting or scratching at its flanks in warm weather?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your horse is biting or scratching at its flanks in warm weather, flies and other biting insects are often the first thing to consider. It can also be a sign of general skin irritation, sweat, rubbing from tack or rugs, or a sensitivity that seems worse in summer.

You can usually start by checking for insect activity and looking closely at the skin. If the behaviour is persistent, the skin looks sore, or your horse seems generally uncomfortable, it’s sensible to get your vet involved.

Things To Check

1. Notice when it happens. Is it after turnout, at certain times of day, during grooming, after exercise, or when flies are busiest?

2. Look closely at the flank area for redness, broken skin, small scabs, swelling, wet patches or heat.

3. Check whether there are visible flies, midges or horseflies around your horse, especially in sheltered or humid spots.

4. Think about rugs, tack or grooming. Anything rubbing or trapping sweat can make the area feel itchy or sore.

5. Check whether the skin looks dry, greasy or flaky, as that can point to irritation rather than a simple insect reaction.

6. Note whether your horse is swishing the tail, stamping, stamping at the hind legs, or biting at other areas as well.

7. Watch for signs that the discomfort is becoming more than mild irritation, such as flinching when touched or being unusually sensitive when groomed.

Common Causes

The most common cause is fly or midge irritation. Bites around the flanks can make a horse bite, scratch or rub, especially in warm, still weather.

Skin irritation from sweat, dust, pollen or grooming can also play a part, particularly if the horse has been working or has a heavy coat.

Rubbing from rugs, girths or tack may cause local soreness that looks similar to fly irritation, even if insects are also present.

Less commonly, ongoing itchiness can be linked to a skin condition or sensitivity that needs a closer look, especially if the problem keeps returning or spreads beyond the flanks.

What To Do

Start by reducing exposure to flies where you can. Turnout timing, stable management and keeping the horse as comfortable as possible in peak fly periods can all help.

Check the skin daily and keep an eye on whether the area is getting worse, staying the same or settling with basic management.

If there is sweat, dirt or surface irritation, keep grooming gentle and avoid making the skin more sore with over-brushing or harsh handling.

Review rugs and tack for fit and rubbing, especially if the problem seems to happen after exercise or during turnout with a rug on.

If the issue keeps coming back, spreads, or your horse seems increasingly bothered, speak to your vet for advice on the next step.

Products That May Help

When warm weather brings more flying insects, a sensible summer care routine may help make your horse more comfortable and easier to manage day to day.

Horse Fly Sprays & Summer Care

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