Why Horses are Prone to Sunburn

Lack of Pigmentation: Horses with light-colored coats or white markings have less natural protection against UV rays. 

Thin or Fine Coats: Horses with thin or fine coats, especially on their backs, can be more susceptible to sunburn in those areas. 

Sensitive Skin: Areas like the muzzle and around the eyes, which are more sensitive, are also more prone to sunburn. 

Know Your Summer Pests: What’s Buzzing Around Your Barn?
Mosquitoes: Tiny but dangerous, mosquitoes are known carriers of Eastern and Western Equine Encephalitis (EEE & WEE)

Horse Flies: These aggressive biters don’t just cause pain—they can also transmit Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA).

Ticks: Ticks latch on unnoticed and are notorious for spreading Lyme disease. They can also lead to skin irritation, hair loss, and infection.

Stable Flies: Often mistaken for houseflies, these relentless pests bite, causing constant irritation, restlessness, and decreased performance.

What is Sweet Itch?

A chronic skin condition in horses caused by an allergic reaction to bites from Culicoides midges (also called no-see-ums). It leads to intense itching, hair loss, and skin damage—especially around the mane, tail, and belly.

Cause: Allergic dermatitis triggered by midge bites.

Prevention:

Physical Barriers - Fly sheets, fly masks
Repellents - Potent fly sprays & spot treatments

Fungal skin infections like rain rot are common in warm, humid months. These infections can cause scabbing, hair loss, and discomfort—and they spread fast if left untreated.

Cause: Fungal overgrowth in damp or compromised skin areas.

Prevention:

Regular grooming and drying after rain or sweat, Anti-fungal shampoos, sprays, and ointments and Clean, dry blankets, saddle pads, and brushes.

A cosmetic but frustrating issue where your horse’s coat fades due to prolonged sun exposure. Most common in dark-coated horses.

Cause: UV damage that breaks down pigment in the hair shaft.

Prevention:

  • UV-Blocking Sheets: Lightweight fly sheets with sun protection
  • Topical Protectants: Coat sprays with SPF or UV filters
  • Nutrition: Coat-supporting supplements with omega-3s and copper