Sweet itch, also known as SME (sweet itch affecting the mane and tail), is a common condition in horses during spring and summer. It is caused by an allergic reaction to the saliva of small biting midges, especially Culicoides midges. When these insects bite, the allergic reaction can trigger intense itching. Horses often rub their mane, tail, and other parts of their body, which can lead to bald patches, wounds, and thickened skin, sometimes even to the point of bleeding.
Because winters are becoming milder, the first symptoms are appearing earlier in the year, sometimes already in February. Midges are most active around sunrise and sunset, particularly in damp areas such as pastures near water. Horses living near the coast often experience fewer symptoms due to the windy climate.
Signs of sweet itch in horses
Horses suffering from sweet itch may show several symptoms:
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Excessive rubbing, especially along the mane, tail base, and belly
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Bald patches or wounds caused by rubbing
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Restless or anxious behavior due to itching
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Lethargy
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Thickened skin
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Small bumps or flaky skin in itchy areas
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Behavioral changes caused by lack of sleep
If you recognize these symptoms, your horse may be suffering from sweet itch. The condition is often linked with other health issues such as insulin resistance, mud fever (pastern dermatitis), or other systemic imbalances.
Managing sweet itch: protection and internal support
Managing sweet itch requires both protection and internal support:
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Use a sweet itch rug
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Stable your horse during dawn and dusk
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Care for the skin with soothing products
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Support the immune system with nutrition, supplements, and detox methods
A healthy gut microbiome plays an important role. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals help strengthen the skin from within, making it less prone to irritation. In addition, the immune system can gradually become less reactive to midge bites through desensitization or stimulus therapy.
Supporting horses with sweet itch with PUUR
PUUR offers a range of natural products that can be used individually to support horses before and during the sweet itch season.
Preparing for the sweet itch season
PUUR Detoxi
Herbal drops that support the liver and kidneys in eliminating waste products. A clean and balanced body helps the immune system function properly and may reduce hypersensitive reactions to insect bites.
PUUR Probiotic
Supports beneficial gut bacteria and helps improve the absorption of nutrients. A healthy gut flora contributes to a strong immune system and helps maintain healthy skin.
Tip: Start before the season begins, ideally in February or March, so your horse is well prepared.
During the sweet itch season
PUUR Culico
Herbal drops designed to support the immune system in horses sensitive to Culicoides midge saliva. For optimal results, use consistently from March to November, for at least two consecutive seasons.
PUUR Apis
Herbal drops that help the immune system develop a balanced response to insect bites while supporting the natural balance of the skin. Ideal for horses experiencing intense itching or irritated skin.
PUUR SME Spray
A soothing spray that supports the skin after insect bites and helps make the horse less attractive to midges. Fewer bites mean less irritation and less rubbing.
Practical use:
PUUR Culico and PUUR Apis work internally, while the SME Spray supports the skin externally. Together they provide a comprehensive approach to help horses cope with the midge season.
By using PUUR products individually, you can support your horse before and during the sweet itch season. This helps your horse stay comfortable with less itching, rubbing, and stress, while maintaining a naturally balanced immune system.
