If your horse is constantly rubbing itself during the summer months, many horse owners immediately think of summer eczema as the cause. But there are numerous other reasons for itching that are often overlooked. It is crucial to identify the exact cause to ensure the right treatment. In this article, we will look at various possible causes of itching in the summer and provide practical tips on how you can help your horse.
1. Obesity as a trigger for itching
Many horses in the Netherlands tend to be overweight, which is not only harmful to humans but also to horses. Overweight horses can suffer from small inflammatory reactions, especially in the manes, which lead to itching. It is important to let overweight horses lose weight gently to avoid further problems. Reducing sugary grass, increasing exercise and a balanced diet are crucial here.
2. Sugar in the feed and laminitis
Sugar, especially in the form of grass, can cause itching in some horses. Horses ingest large amounts of sugar, especially when they are grazing in the summer. This can not only cause itching, but can also lead to conditions such as insulin resistance and laminitis. It is advisable to limit grazing, switch to low-sugar roughage and concentrates, and avoid high-sugar treats.
3. Insect bites and parasites
Culicoides midges, also known as biting midges, are a dreaded summer pest that can cause irritation and itching in horses. The saliva of these midges triggers allergic reactions that lead to rubbing. Eczema blankets, pre-season detoxification measures and supplements can help alleviate the suffering. Additionally, other possible causes such as lice, mites and worms should be considered.
4. Other reasons for itching
In addition to the causes mentioned, food allergies, intolerances, stress or even a reaction to fertilizer can also trigger itching. A detox treatment twice a year can help to detoxify the body and strengthen the immune system.
Conclusion: The right care for a happy horse in summer
Many horses are often diagnosed as suffering from eczema in the summer without knowing the exact causes and background. In addition to the well-known summer eczema, caused by Culicoides midges or gnats, feed allergies, intolerances, excess weight or stress can also be causes of skin problems and severe itching.
So what can you do if your horse suffers from summer eczema?
First, it is important to provide relief for your four-legged friend and to optimally support the immune system, intestines and metabolism. For this, we recommend our gastroAKUT with CBD powder and medicinal mushrooms as a natural booster for the immune system and digestion. In addition, the bromelain it contains can provide targeted support for skin damage and allergies. This means that your four-legged friend's entire system is ideally supplied and built up from the inside.
Following this metabolic reset, we recommend feeding the allergyCARE throughout the summer months (ideally from March to October). The hemp powder with 3% CBD, combined with selected medicinal mushrooms, can provide effective support for allergies and problems with the entire immune system.
Read more about how CBD can help with allergies & itching here.
In addition to feeding suitable supplements, you should also take a closer look at your ration - it is important to clarify whether you have chosen the right mineralization and concentrate for your hay and whether there are any allergens in your composition. Please contact us if you have any questions.
