How to get rid of Horse Mites
Here on our Horse Insurance team at SEIB, as horse owners ourselves, we’re always keen to find out more about how to keep our beloved horses happy and healthy. We’re constantly learning, developing and improving the ways we look after our four-legged friends so we know we’re doing our very best by them.
As we know, the list of challenges when it comes to looking after horses and ponies is extensive. Following some interesting office conversations about Horse Mites, we decided to find out more about what to do to should our horses become subjected them.
What are mites?
Horse mites can cause significant irritation, discomfort and anxiety for those affected. Often horses and ponies with feathered legs, such as Traditional Gypsy Cobs, Shires and Clydesdales are most prone to mites. Physical signs of mites include thickened crusty, or scabby skin around the pasterns and heels, swelling, and hair loss. There are also several behavioural signs of mites that include constant itching and foot stamping.
Mites more likely for feathered horses
With feathered horses and ponies being the most likely to become afflicted by mites, we spoke to the founder of the Traditional Gypsy Cob Association, Andrea Betteridge for her advice on getting rid of horse mites.
“As soon as you suspect mites and notice your horse or pony scratching or rubbing, you need to be on top of it. Every horse or pony is different and people have many differing ways of treating and getting rid of mites. There are so many products, thought processes and ideas out there: it is a case of testing what works for you and your horse,” explains Andrea.
Resolved from the inside out
“We are lucky to live not far from the beach, a good paddle in the sea can be helpful for relief, but it isn’t just about treating mites from the outside, Andrea says: “Changing feeds and hitting a mite problem from the inside out can help, but a key piece of advice is to stay on top of the problem. Even once treated and the mites have gone away there is every chance they will come back. Mites are unpredictable and can appear at any time of the year and, they can affect some horses and not others for no apparent reason.”
Welfare first
“The horse’s welfare always comes first and their health and happiness are always the priority. If the mites are bad, I would trim all the feather off to ensure the mites can be totally cleared efficiently. The hair grows back quickly and often better! Our homebred stallion, Heartbreaker – known as Stan the Man, a previous HOYS and Royal International winner, had mites badly. We trimmed his feather off and treated the skin, used supplements and took him to the beach regularly to get it all cleared up. His feather grew back very quickly. Stan now enjoys a precious retired lifestyle with us at home.”
We would always advise contacting your vet for their professional advice if you have any concerns.
Helping keep your horse in top health
With over 60 years’ experience in horse insurance at SEIB, our policies are designed to support you and your horses when health issues arise. Working in conjunction with trusted professionals we offer holistic support to help inform and educate horse owners through our online articles and blog posts.
With thanks to Andrea Betteridge, founder of the Traditional Gypsy Cob Association (TGCA).
About SEIB
SEIB Insurance Brokers have been providing insurance for Horses for over 60 years. We provide a flexible range of policies to suit your needs. Our experienced team of horse owners can help provide you with advice on what cover you might need.
