As soon as temperatures rise, flies become active again—and for many horses, this means not only annoying buzzing but also real stress on the skin. Some horses have an allergic reaction to fly bites, which can lead to severe itching, skin inflammation, and restlessness. Does your horse scratch or rub itself noticeably often? Then it may be suffering from what is known as an insect bite allergy—also called summer eczema or insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH).

What causes the allergy?

The allergic reaction is caused by 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 that?
Once sensitized, horses usually develop this allergic reaction every year. Certain breeds, such as Icelandic horses, are particularly susceptible to it.

Common symptoms

These symptoms may indicate an allergy to insect bites:

• Excessive shedding of the mane, tail, or belly

• Scaly or moist patches of skin

• Swelling, bumps, or hives

• Hair loss or bald spots

• Restlessness, especially in the evenings

Tips for relief and prevention

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

Limit contact with insects

• Use fly rugs, belly flaps, and fly masks

• Move grazing time to the morning and evening

• Install fans in the barn – mosquitoes avoid moving air

• Keep the pasture well-maintained and prevent standing water

Soothe and strengthen the skin

Avoid harsh ointments or antiseptics that can disrupt the skin barrier. Gentle care with microbiome-friendly products such as Doderm Repair Gel can help:

• Supports the skin's natural flora

• Promotes recovery

• Does not sting, even on irritated skin

• Suitable for daily use

Tip:
Apply Doderm Repair Gel directly to the affected areas—preferably after rinsing with clean water. A small amount is sufficient.

Supporting the skin from the inside out

• Omega-3 fatty acids (such as those found in flaxseed) strengthen the skin's structure

• Antioxidants such as vitamin E can reduce inflammation

• In consultation with the veterinarian, antihistamines or allergy tests may be helpful

Why Doderm Is a Good Choice

Many traditional skincare products contain irritants that can aggravate sensitive or already irritated equine skin. Doderm takes a different approach:

• Natural antibodies in milk target only harmful bacteria

• Free of corticosteroids, antibiotics, and alcohol

• Gentle on the skin, even with daily use

• Suitable for sensitive horses, foals, and animals with allergies

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

Year-round skin care pays off

Skin care is important even outside of the flying season. A strong skin barrier provides long-lasting protection—and can significantly reduce symptoms the following spring.

Doderm – Natural support for sensitive horse skin

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