Itchiness in horses, control it with the right feed.

Itchiness in horses, control it with the right feed.

Horses and ponies sometimes experience itchiness, just as we humans do sometimes. Nothing wrong with that, and for horses a little itch even has a social function. Within a herd, they strengthen their bonds by scratching each other’s withers with their teeth and relieving the itch together.

Occasional itchiness is no problem at all. But what if the itching becomes more serious? When horses and ponies seem literally driven crazy by it? When they can hardly stop rubbing, biting, scratching, rolling, or stamping their feet? Then something more is going on, and it’s important to find the underlying cause.

Common causes of itching

There are many possible causes of itching in horses, and sometimes the solution is quite simple. Think of brushing away (clipped) loose hairs more thoroughly, using sprays to prevent insect bites, washing out accumulated sweat and dirt from the coat more often, or avoiding sweating under a rug that’s too warm.

Unfortunately, itching is often caused by more complex issues that are harder to detect and solve. Examples include bacterial infections, diseases, fungi, mange mites, lice, or pinworms and ringworm. Bald, irritated patches of skin, flaky dandruff, moist sores, and itchiness around the anus or lower legs can cause significant discomfort. In such cases, treatment guided by a veterinarian is strongly recommended. Good (stable) hygiene, a dry shelter, and keeping tack and rugs clean also help a great deal. But there’s more to gain, for example, through specific and effective adjustments in your horse’s diet.

Itching linked to the immune system

Itching often arises, at least in part, from a weakened immune system. When a horse’s resistance is not at its best, itchiness may be a troublesome result. Think of itching due to nutritional deficiencies (vitamins, minerals, and trace elements), itching caused by sweet itch (tail and mane eczema), or itching as a result of feed or bedding allergies.

Research increasingly shows that a poorly functioning immune system impacts overall health, with previously unexplained or persistent itchiness as a consequence. Sweet itch (SME, summer eczema) is perhaps the most well-known form of this.

Feed better, boost the immune system

An underperforming immune system often triggers (excessive) allergic reactions to certain substances, sometimes with itching as the result. But what can you do? Take the best opportunity available and tackle the problem with Voermeesters Huid Vitaal.

Providing the very best, natural feed makes a huge difference in reducing or even eliminating itching problems. At Voermeesters, you’ll only find horse feeds produced according to the principles of Pure Feed. Better feed also means a healthier skin condition.

Do you feed your horse or pony a sport pellet? Then instead of Huid Vitaal, you can choose Sport Vitaal. This pellet contains extra energy and vitamins to support the immune system.

The intestines are vital organs that greatly influence overall equine health. When the gut functions optimally, the immune system generally follows, and allergic reactions such as itching are significantly reduced.

Independent feeding advice

The foundation of every healthy digestive system is providing sufficient, good-quality roughage. The Huid Vitaal pellet is an excellent supplement alongside any type of roughage. Try it yourself and experience the positive effects on your horse’s skin. Natural and Pure Feed, based on years of knowledge, skill, and experience. Your very best choice in the fight against almost every form of equine itching.

Of course, you can always request personal feeding advice from our customer service team. They will be happy to guide you through the steps you can take to address itching in your horse or pony.