I think my pony is developing sweet itch!!! - Had him 11 years and the first time it has occurred...any advice on treatment/prevention greatly appreciated! - He is biting him self bald at the top of his legs and on his chest between his legs and seems to be a bit on his belly...??!!
Not broken skin as yet..but will be if i dont do something soon!
Thanks, Maz
www.k9solutions-holidays.com

Hi Maz,
Dont panic!! lol With something like sweet itch the answer is generally prevention and not cure. You need to stop your horse rubbing the hair out whilst making sure that your horse isnt uncomfortable.
Have a look on the internet at a Boett, they are like fly rugs but they are like a tight mesh which does up everywhere tightly so the bugs cant get in and irritate the skin. Would be worth trying!!
Mel

The Boett rugs are excellent for sweet itch. Not cheap but IMO the only one that offers true protection.

Yes definitely get a fly rug the ones with the piece that goes under the belly is the best option, a full face mask would be a good idea too. You can also get homeopathy remedies for sweetitch. Equus Health limited do a great selection of homeopathy for horses and it really does work. Also try feeding garlic supplement to keep the pesky flies/midges at bay. Try and keep your horse away from wet areas like streams etc as this is where the midges are worst.

Good luck, hope it clears up x

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Thank you for your tips!..Will look into the fly rugs..he has garlic everyday, am going to try benzol too that may soothe him a little..cheers everybody!

hi, i found green oil cream used to help alot, i used to get it in a tub from my saddlery shop...it can be used for alot of things and is good..cuts, mud fever, sweet ich etc...hope this helps and good luck