Why is my horse rubbing its mane out?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your horse is rubbing its mane out, flies and midges are one of the most common reasons, especially in warm weather. Sweet itch is a frequent cause, but rubbing can also happen with skin irritation, sweat, friction from tack or rugs, or other itchy skin problems.

The main thing is to look for patterns and skin changes, then manage the likely triggers while you keep an eye on whether it improves.

Things To Check

1. Check whether the rubbing is worse at turnout, at dusk, near water, or after exercise.

2. Look closely at the mane and neck for broken hair, redness, scabs, hair loss, swelling or sore spots.

3. Check whether the tail, dock, face or belly are also itchy, as that can point towards a broader irritation pattern.

4. Think about any recent changes such as new bedding, new rug, new grooming products, clipping, washing or feed.

5. Look for flies, midges or signs that your horse is stamping, tail swishing or restless at certain times.

6. Check rugs, neck covers and tack for rubbing, tightness, dirt build-up or anything that could be catching the skin.

7. See whether the skin feels hot, thickened or more painful than simple itching would suggest.

Common Causes

Fly and midge irritation is the most common cause in season, especially if the rubbing follows turnout or gets worse in the evening.

Sweet itch can cause intense itching along the mane, tail and sometimes the belly or face. Horses may rub so much that hair breaks off and the skin becomes sore.

Skin friction from rugs, neck covers, headcollars or tack can also make a horse rub, particularly if something is dirty, wet, ill-fitting or only causing irritation in one area.

Less commonly, the problem may be linked to dry skin, sensitive skin, lice, mites or another skin condition that needs proper assessment.

What To Do

Start by reducing obvious triggers. Keep an eye on when the rubbing happens, and try to match it with turnout times, fly activity, grooming or exercise.

Gently check the skin and keep the area clean and dry. Avoid over-washing or using anything harsh if the skin is already sore.

If flies seem to be involved, try to make turnout and stable management as comfortable as possible during peak insect times. A well-fitted rug or neck cover may also help support your horse's routine if rubbing is seasonal.

If tack or rugs seem involved, check fit carefully and remove anything that is dirty, rubbing or unnecessary until the skin settles.

Keep a simple note of where the rubbing is, when it happens and whether it is getting better or worse. That can be very useful if you do need advice later.

When To Contact A Vet

Ask your vet for advice if the skin is very sore, swollen or broken, if the rubbing is getting worse quickly, or if your horse seems extremely distressed. It’s also sensible to get help if the problem keeps coming back each year or doesn't improve with sensible fly-season management.

Products That May Help

If your horse’s mane rubbing seems linked to fly season or midge activity, this collection may be useful as part of your day-to-day management routine.

Horse Fly Sprays & Summer Care

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