Keeping flies away from horses is crucial for their health and well-being. Flies can transmit diseases, cause skin irritation, and disrupt a horse’s peace, affecting their overall comfort and performance.
Understanding the Fly Problem
Flies are a persistent nuisance for horses, especially during warm months. They are attracted to horses’ sweat, manure, and wounds, making them a constant source of annoyance and potential health risks.
The Dangers of Flies
Flies can carry and spread a variety of diseases, including:
- West Nile Virus
- Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA)
- Strangles
- Pink Eye
In addition to disease transmission, flies can also cause:
- Skin irritation and wounds
- Stress and anxiety
- Reduced appetite and weight loss
Dietary Strategies for Fly Control
While fly sprays and other preventative measures are important, incorporating certain dietary changes can also help deter flies and promote a healthier environment for your horse.
## What to Feed Horses to Keep Flies Away
Flies are a persistent nuisance for horses, causing discomfort, spreading diseases, and impacting their overall well-being. While fly control strategies often involve physical barriers and repellents, incorporating certain feeds into a horse’s diet can also play a significant role in deterring these pesky insects. (See Also: Why Do Horses Have Chestnuts)
Understanding the Fly-Horse Connection
Flies are attracted to horses for several reasons. They are drawn to the warmth of the horse’s body, the moisture from sweat, and the scent of manure. Flies lay their eggs in manure, and their larvae feed on it, further perpetuating the cycle. This close relationship between flies and horses creates a breeding ground for disease transmission. Flies can carry and spread a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, posing a serious health risk to horses.
Dietary Strategies for Fly Control
While no single feed can completely eliminate flies, incorporating certain ingredients into a horse’s diet can make them less attractive to these insects. Here are some key dietary strategies to consider:
1. High-Quality Forage
Providing ample amounts of fresh, high-quality forage is the foundation of a healthy horse diet and can indirectly contribute to fly control. A well-nourished horse with a balanced diet is less likely to be as attractive to flies due to reduced sweating and a healthier skin condition.
2. Garlic and Onion Supplements
Garlic and onion contain compounds that have natural insect-repellent properties. Adding garlic or onion powder to a horse’s feed can help deter flies. However, it’s important to note that excessive amounts of garlic or onion can be toxic to horses, so consult with your veterinarian about appropriate dosages.
3. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural powder made from fossilized diatoms. It works by dehydrating insects, effectively killing them on contact. DE can be sprinkled on a horse’s coat, bedding, and around the stable to help control flies. It’s important to use food-grade DE, as other types can be harmful if inhaled.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is believed to have some fly-repelling properties. It can be added to a horse’s water or mixed with their feed. However, the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar as a fly repellent is not as well-established as other methods. (See Also: How To Float A Horses Teeth)
5. Fly Predators
Encouraging natural predators of flies, such as bats, birds, and spiders, can help reduce fly populations around the stable. Providing nesting boxes for birds and leaving areas of undisturbed vegetation can attract these beneficial creatures.
Important Considerations
While dietary strategies can be helpful in managing flies, they are not a standalone solution. It’s crucial to implement a comprehensive fly control program that includes:
* **Regular manure removal:** Flies breed in manure, so prompt and thorough removal is essential.
* **Fly traps and repellents:** Strategically placed fly traps and repellents can help reduce fly populations.
* **Stable hygiene:** Keeping the stable clean and well-ventilated can discourage flies from breeding.
* **Grooming:** Regularly grooming your horse can help remove sweat and loose hair, making them less attractive to flies.
Recap
Feeding horses specific ingredients can play a role in deterring flies. High-quality forage, garlic and onion supplements, diatomaceous earth, and apple cider vinegar can all contribute to a fly-control strategy. However, it’s important to remember that these dietary measures should be part of a comprehensive fly management program that includes regular manure removal, fly traps, stable hygiene, and grooming.
Frequently Asked Questions: Flies and Horse Nutrition
What kind of feed can help repel flies from horses?
There isn’t a specific type of feed that directly repels flies. However, a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can support your horse’s overall health and immune system, making them less susceptible to fly bites.
Do supplements help keep flies away from horses?
Some supplements, like garlic or apple cider vinegar, are believed by some horse owners to help deter flies. However, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. Always consult your veterinarian before adding any new supplements to your horse’s diet. (See Also: Can Horses Founder On Hay)
Can I add certain herbs to my horse’s feed to repel flies?
Certain herbs, such as citronella, lavender, and peppermint, are known for their fly-repelling properties. You can try adding these herbs to your horse’s feed in small amounts, but it’s important to note that they may not be as effective as other fly control methods.
What’s the best way to manage flies on my horse alongside their diet?
A comprehensive fly control strategy involves multiple approaches. In addition to a balanced diet, consider using fly sprays, masks, and stable management practices like regular cleaning and fly traps.
How can I tell if my horse is suffering from fly bites?
Signs of fly bites include excessive scratching, biting at their skin, skin irritation, and even wounds. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian.
