Keeping your horse free from flies and other pests is essential for their comfort, health, and performance. Flies can cause discomfort, spread diseases, and lead to skin irritations. In this article, we’ll explore the best fly sprays for horses and the most effective fly repellent accessories recommended by equine professionals.
Why Fly Protection Is Crucial for Horses
Flies and other pests aren’t just a nuisance—they pose significant health risks for horses:
- Irritation: Flies can cause persistent irritation, leading to stress and behavioral issues.
- Skin Infections: Continuous biting and scratching can lead to sores, infections, and dermatitis.
- Disease Transmission: Flies can carry diseases like equine infectious anemia or conjunctivitis.
By combining fly sprays with repellent accessories, you can provide comprehensive protection for your horse.
Best Fly Sprays for Horses
Fly sprays are the first line of defense against pests. Here are the top vet-recommended options:
1. Absorbine UltraShield EX Fly Spray
- Key Features:
- Long-lasting formula with up to 17 days of protection.
- Effective against flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats.
- Water- and sweat-resistant.
- Why It’s Recommended:
Contains multiple active ingredients like permethrin and pyrethrin, ensuring broad-spectrum protection.
2. Pyranha Wipe N’ Spray Fly Protection
- Key Features:
- Quick knockdown formula.
- Leaves a shiny, conditioned coat.
- Ready-to-use, no mixing required.
- Best For: Horses in high-fly zones needing immediate relief.
- Why It’s Recommended: Combines effective pest control with coat conditioning.
3. Farnam Endure Sweat-Resistant Fly Spray
- Key Features:
- Stays effective even when your horse sweats.
- Contains RepeLock® conditioner that binds to hair.
- Protects for up to 14 days.
- Best For: Horses engaged in intense physical activity.
- Why It’s Recommended: Long-lasting protection even during workouts.
4. EcoVet Fly Repellent Spray
- Key Features:
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly.
- Made from food-grade fatty acids.
- Repels flies without harsh chemicals.
- Best For: Horses with sensitive skin or owners seeking natural options.
- Why It’s Recommended: Safer for horses and the environment.
5. Manna Pro Pro-Force Fly Spray
- Key Features:
- Kills and repels a variety of insects, including stable and deer flies.
- Quick-drying formula with citronella scent.
- Offers up to 14 days of protection.
- Why It’s Recommended: Highly effective for a wide range of pests.
Best Fly Repellent Accessories
In addition to sprays, accessories can provide continuous protection and enhance your horse’s comfort.
1. Fly Masks
- Top Picks:
- Cashel Crusader Fly Mask: Protects ears, eyes, and nose with soft, durable fabric.
- Shires Fine Mesh Fly Mask: Offers UV protection with breathable mesh.
- Benefits: Prevents flies from targeting sensitive areas, including eyes and ears.
2. Fly Sheets
- Top Picks:
- WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Ripshield Fly Sheet: Tear-resistant and provides full-body coverage.
- Kensington Protective Fly Sheet: Durable mesh material with UV protection.
- Benefits: Shields the horse’s body from flies and harmful UV rays.
3. Fly Boots
- Top Picks:
- Shoo Fly Leggins: Lightweight and durable, prevents flies from irritating the legs.
- Cashel Crusader Leg Guards: Comfortable, with no-slip fit.
- Benefits: Protects lower legs, a common target for biting insects.
4. Fly Traps
- Top Picks:
- Starbar Captivator Fly Trap: Attracts and traps large quantities of flies.
- Rescue Disposable Fly Trap: Easy-to-use, disposable option.
- Benefits: Reduces the overall fly population around stables.
5. Fly Repellent Feed-Through Supplements
- Top Picks:
- Farnam Simplifly Feed-Thru Fly Control: Reduces fly larvae in manure.
- Equitrol II Feed-Thru Fly Control: Prevents the development of house and stable flies.
- Benefits: Targets flies at their source for long-term management.
How to Maximize Fly Protection
- Clean Environment:
- Regularly remove manure and leftover feed from stalls.
- Use fly traps and repellents around the barn.
- Apply Sprays Correctly:
- Read and follow label instructions.
- Avoid spraying near the horse’s eyes, nostrils, or mouth.
- Combine Methods:
- Use sprays in tandem with masks, sheets, and feed-through supplements.
- Rotate products periodically to prevent pest resistance.
- Inspect Regularly:
- Check for signs of fly bites or irritation.
- Treat wounds promptly to avoid infections.
FAQs
Q: How often should I apply fly spray?
A: Most sprays should be reapplied every few days or as directed on the label. Sweat-resistant sprays last longer but may still need reapplication after heavy rain or exercise.
Q: Can I use fly sprays designed for other animals on my horse?
A: No. Fly sprays are formulated specifically for horses and may contain ingredients unsuitable for other animals.
Q: Are natural fly sprays effective?
A: Natural sprays can work well for horses with sensitive skin, but their duration of effectiveness may be shorter than synthetic options.
Conclusion
Protecting your horse from flies is essential for their health and happiness. By investing in high-quality fly sprays like Absorbine UltraShield EX or Farnam Endure, and combining them with accessories like masks and sheets, you can create a pest-free environment. Additionally, maintaining a clean stable and using feed-through fly control supplements can further reduce fly populations.
Equip your horse with the best fly protection today and ensure they stay comfortable, healthy, and focused year-round.
