As soon as temperatures rise, flies become active again – and for many horses, this means not only annoying buzzing but real skin stress. Some animals react allergically to fly bites, leading to severe itching, skin inflammation, and restlessness. If your horse scratches or rubs itself unusually often, it could be suffering from an insect bite allergy – also known as summer eczema or insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH).

What's behind the allergy?

The cause is an excessive immune reaction to the salivary proteins of biting insects such as midges (Culicoides), horseflies, or stable flies. The body reacts with inflammation and itching – especially along the mane, tail root, and belly seam.

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

Typical Symptoms

These signs may indicate a fly bite allergy:

• Severe rubbing of mane, tail, or belly

• Crusted or weeping skin lesions

• Swelling, nodules, or hives

• Hair loss or bald patches

• Nervousness and restlessness, especially in the evening

Tips for Relief and Prevention

With the right measures, your horse's skin can be protected and symptoms significantly reduced.

Reduce Insect Contact

• Use fly sheets, belly guards, and fly masks

• Adjust stable times to morning and evening hours

• Use fans in the stable – mosquitoes avoid moving air

• Maintain pastures regularly, avoid stagnant water

Soothe and Strengthen Skin

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

• Supports natural skin flora

• Promotes regeneration

• Does not sting, even on irritated skin

• Can be used daily

Tip:
Apply Doderm Repair Gel directly to the affected areas – preferably after cleaning with clear water. A small amount is enough.

Support Skin from Within

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

• Antioxidants like vitamin E can reduce inflammation

• In consultation with a veterinarian, antihistamines or allergy tests may be useful

Why Doderm is a Good Choice

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

• Natural antibodies from milk specifically target only harmful bacteria

• Free from cortisone, antibiotics, and alcohol

• Gentle on the skin, even with daily applications

• Suitable for sensitive horses, foals, and allergy-prone animals

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

Year-round Skin Care Pays Off

Even outside of fly season, good skin care is worthwhile. A strong skin barrier sustainably protects your horse – and can significantly alleviate symptoms next spring.

Doderm – Natural Support for Sensitive Horse Skin

An allergy to fly bites can be very stressful for your horse. However, with targeted prevention and gentle skin care, summer can be made much more pleasant. Discover our animal-friendly solutions now and give your horse the support it deserves – gentle, effective, and microbiome-friendly.