Why is my horse’s skin red and irritated after fly bites?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

Red, irritated skin after fly bites is often a reaction to the bites themselves, especially in horses that are sensitive to flies and midges. It can also happen if the skin has been scratched, rubbed or made more inflamed by sweating, mud or repeated biting. Most cases are linked to seasonal irritation, but it’s worth checking the area closely so you can spot anything that needs more attention.

Things To Check

1. Check when the redness appears, such as after turnout, at dusk, after exercise or after grooming.

2. Look closely for swelling, broken skin, scabs, heat, discharge or small raised bumps around the bites.

3. See whether your horse is rubbing, stamping, tail swishing or trying to scratch the area more than usual.

4. Check if the irritation is limited to common fly areas like the belly, legs, ears, face or dock.

5. Notice whether the skin is just pink and sore-looking, or whether it is becoming crusty, thickened or weeping.

6. Think about whether fly numbers have suddenly increased where your horse is kept.

7. Check for other possible triggers, such as new grooming products, fresh bedding, mud, sweat or recent clipping.

Common Causes

The most common cause is a normal skin reaction to fly bites. Some horses get a mild, short-lived redness, while others react more strongly and look sore or blotchy.

Repeated biting can make the skin more inflamed, especially if flies are active for long periods or if the horse has been rubbing the area.

Occasionally, the skin can look worse because of a secondary issue such as scratching, mild abrasion from rubbing, or irritation from sweat, dirt or grooming products.

Less commonly, a horse may be developing a stronger sensitivity to insect bites, which can lead to more persistent irritation across the summer.

What To Do

Start by keeping the area clean and dry, and avoid harsh scrubbing. If the skin is dirty, a gentle wash and careful drying may help you see what’s really going on.

Try to reduce further biting where you can by checking turnout times, shelter, stable management and whether the horse is most bothered at certain times of day.

Monitor the area for 24 to 48 hours if the redness is mild and your horse is otherwise well. Take a photo if you want to compare whether it is improving or spreading.

If your horse is rubbing, use sensible management to limit further irritation, such as checking the fit of rugs and keeping the coat and skin free from sweat and debris.

If the skin is becoming more inflamed, if there are open areas, or if your horse seems very uncomfortable, it’s sensible to speak to your vet for advice.

Products That May Help

If your horse is reacting to flies and midges, a summer care routine can help you stay on top of grooming, turnout and general skin comfort during the season.

Horse Fly Sprays & Summer Care

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