As soon as temperatures rise, flies become active again—and for many horses, this means not just an annoying buzzing, but real stress on their skin. Some animals have allergic reactions to fly bites, leading to severe itching, skin inflammation, and restlessness. If your horse is scratching or rubbing itself noticeably often, it may be suffering from what’s known as an insect bite allergy —also called summer eczema or insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH).

What causes allergies?

The cause is an excessive immune response to the saliva proteins of biting insects such as midges (Culicoides), horseflies, or biting flies. The body reacts with inflammation and itching—especially along the mane, the base of the tail, and the belly line.

Did you know?
Once sensitized, horses usually develop this allergic reaction every year. Certain breeds, such as Icelandic horses, are particularly susceptible.

Common symptoms

These symptoms may indicate an allergy to fly bites:

• Excessive rubbing of the mane, tail, or belly

• Crusted or weeping skin areas

• Swelling, lumps, or hives

• Hair loss or bald spots

• Nervousness and restlessness, especially in the evening

Tips for Relief and Prevention

With the right measures, you can protect your horse's skin and significantly reduce the symptoms.

Reduce contact with insects

• Use fly rugs, belly bands, and fly masks

• Move barn times to the morning and evening hours

• Using fans in the barn – mosquitoes avoid moving air

• Maintain pastures regularly and avoid standing water

Soothe and strengthen the skin

Avoid harsh ointments or disinfectants that further disrupt the skin barrier. Gentle care with microbiome-friendly products like Doderm Repair Gel can help:

• Supports the skin's natural flora

• Promotes regeneration

• Doesn't sting, even on irritated skin

• Can be used daily

Tip:
Apply Doderm Repair Gel directly to the affected areas—preferably after cleansing with clean water. A small amount is all you need.

Supporting your skin from the inside

• Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., from flaxseed) strengthen the skin's structure

• Antioxidants such as vitamin E can reduce inflammation

• In consultation with your veterinarian, antihistamines or allergy tests may be appropriate

Why Doderm is a good choice

Many conventional skincare products contain irritating ingredients that can further aggravate sensitive or already irritated horse skin. Doderm takes a different approach:

• Natural antibodies found in milk specifically target only harmful bacteria

• Free of cortisone, antibiotics, and alcohol

• Gentle on the skin, even with daily use

• Suitable for sensitive horses, foals, and animals prone to allergies

Did you know?
The technology behind Doderm is based on over 10 years of clinical research and is already being used successfully in veterinary medicine.

Year-round skin care pays off

Good skin care is important even outside of fly season. A strong skin barrier provides long-lasting protection for your horse—and can significantly reduce symptoms next spring.

Doderm – Natural support for sensitive horse skin

An allergy to horsefly bites can be very stressful for your horse. However, with targeted prevention and gentle skin care, you can make the summer much more comfortable. Discover our animal-friendly solutions now and give your horse the care it deserves—gentle, effective, and microbiome-friendly.