Why does my horse keep getting skin sores?

It’s that time of year again, the time of flies, mites, thorny plants, poison ivy, bees and parasites. Summertime can bring a host of new threats to your horse, especially when it comes to their skin. If your horse has sores or is constantly itching, they may need immediate attention.

Before you panic, Google every condition or call your vet five times in a row, take a moment to properly assess your horse. Are the sores appearing in patterns? What do they look like?

Below, we’ve broken down some of the most common causes of sores and itching, and what you can do to help.

Flies, Midges and Lice

In the summer months, most irritation around your horse’s body can be traced back to flies.

There are different types of flies your horse may deal with daily, including:

• Horseflies. In the UK alone, there are over 30 species. Female horseflies feed on blood, making their bites particularly painful. They’re larger than most flies, so easier to spot. Keeping a crop to hand can help deter them during rides or pasture work.
• Stable flies. These are blood-sucking pests that leave painful reddish-brown marks, usually on the legs. This often causes stomping and kicking, increasing risk of injury. Focus fly spray on the legs if these are an issue.
• Midges. Responsible for “Sweet Itch”, an allergic reaction to their saliva. This can cause severe irritation and repeated rubbing. A soothing midge balm can help calm affected areas.
• Face flies. Those persistent flies around your horse’s eyes feed on moisture like tears and sweat. While not dangerous, they are highly irritating. Use a fly mask and apply fly spray carefully to the face.

A high-quality fly spray is one of the best ways to combat these pests. Our natural fly spray is effective, sustainably made and free from harsh chemicals.

How to identify fly bites:
Most bites appear as reddish-brown marks or raised hives. They are typically very itchy and often found around the eyes, legs and underbelly where skin is more exposed. Hair loss around the area is also common, especially if your horse has been rubbing.

What about lice?
Lice tend to live in dense areas like the mane and tail and can spread between horses. They often cause flaky skin and persistent itching. They are more noticeable in winter when fewer external irritants are present.

Worms

Unfortunately, worms are another common issue horses can face.

They can be picked up from pasture and may cause damage to the gut, lungs and other organs. Eggs can also remain in manure, increasing the risk of reinfection.

Common types include:

• Pinworms. Cause irritation around the anus, leading to rubbing, hair loss and sores.
• Ringworm. Appears as circular patches of hair loss, often starting as raised tufts. You may notice weeping wounds around the head, neck or saddle area. Isolate your horse and contact your vet immediately if suspected.
• Habronema or Drashia. These parasites feed on secretions and can bury into skin tissue, causing swollen, red sores.

If you suspect worms, contact your veterinarian. Clean the environment thoroughly and soothe visible sores with a protective balm.

Wounds

Open wounds can quickly worsen if left untreated. Horses often rub irritated areas, which can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.

Apply a fast-acting soothing balm to protect the skin and discourage further irritation.

Skin Conditions

Allergies, dermatitis and sensitivity can also lead to sores and excessive itching.

Look for patterns. Does irritation occur after contact with certain bedding, feed or cleaning products? Is your horse itching without an obvious cause?

This information will help your vet diagnose the issue more accurately. Preventing your horse from rubbing affected areas is key, as open skin can attract further complications.

Products for Horse Skin Sores

We’ve created a natural equine range to help keep your horse comfortable throughout the summer:

• Be:Gone Fly and Midge Balm – Soothes bites and helps prevent further irritation.
• Be:Gone Fly Spray – A natural, essential oil-based spray without harsh chemicals or strong odours.
• Be:Clean Pet Shampoo – Gentle cleansing to remove irritants and keep skin healthy.

You can explore our full range on our website. Here’s to a summer of itch-free, comfortable days for you and your horse.