Insecticides and fly masks are two of the most common ways to repel flies from horses. However, you should also consider natural alternatives. Some people use citronella or geranium as repellents, while others opt for pine or tea tree essential oils. Either way, it’s a smart move to protect your horse from the flies. And the best part is that these products are safe for horses, too!
Topical fly repellents can also be used. They act as contact repellents by containing natural and synthetic insecticides, including citronella. These products are easy to find and can be applied directly to the horse’s body, even on the road. However, their effectiveness can quickly diminish if your horse is frequently bathed or sweats a lot. Therefore, it’s important to apply the repellent on your horse before riding, or at least an hour before. Higher-end products should be reapplied every five days. Follow the directions on the package.
Other fly control products include fly masks. The primary advantage of fly masks is their protection of the horse’s face and eyes from flies. Besides protecting the horse’s face and ears, they also block the horse’s mucus openings. The problem with fly masks is that they are hot and sweaty and cause your horse to be uncomfortable. However, they can be very effective in preventing flies from biting your horse. Insecticides and fly repellents can also help to prevent flies from attacking your horse.
Another effective solution for fly control is apple cider vinegar. This is a natural insecticide that is effective for horse and pooch as well as human and animal pets. Apple cider vinegar can be applied directly to the horse’s body and is a great fly repellent. You should make sure to dilute apple cider vinegar before applying it to your horses’ skin, but take care not to spray it directly in their eyes or nose. It’s important to remember that apple cider vinegar is not toxic to human or animal and will quickly be expelled from the horse’s body.
Another way to prevent flies from attacking your horse is to avoid breeding areas. Flies love moisture and will seek these areas in your horse’s yard or pasture. Look for leaks and areas where rain water gathers. Horses have favorite spots where they can pee, so it’s important to eliminate those areas before they become breeding grounds for flies. Putting down beddings that absorb moisture can help prevent fly problems.
Using insect growth regulators will stop flies from reproducing and will control their odors. You should also rinse your horse thoroughly, as flies love the smell of animal feces. Moreover, you should use citronella oil or candles. These ingredients will keep the flies away from your horse’s feces. It’s very simple, but it works for all animals.
How do I protect my horse’s eyes from flies?
“Good fly control extends to the face, not just spraying the body, but using stuff safe to use by their eyes,” she said. Easterwood recommended using sprays and ointments to protect horses and repel flies. Ointment can be applied to a cloth and used to wipe the horse’s eyes.M
Does vinegar keep flies away from horses?
From acting as an area repellent to being placed directly on horses, vinegar is a good home-made solution for helping keep your horses fly-free. Use vinegar in home-made fly bait mixes. Many fly traps use fly bait. You can make your own by adding 2 cups of water and ½ cup of sugar to ½ cup of vinegar.
What will keep horseflies away from you?
If you’re having a backyard barbecue or other outdoor gathering, you can help stop horse flies from attacking your guests by burning citronella candles and lighting torches. The smoke and scent released from the citronella oil can help keep horse flies away.
How do I protect my horse from deer flies?
– Test out liquid repellents. The jury is still out on whether or not liquid insect repellent is effective against deer flies and horse flies. … – Stay still. … – Go the distance. … – Wear light colors. … – Avoid water. … – Always wear a hat. … – Make a sticky hat. … – Don a dryer sheet.
Does bug spray protect against horse flies?
1) Bug Spray – Picaridin has been said to effectively ward off horse-flies. You can try Deet as well, which can help repel mosquitoes too. Remember that if you are running for hours on end in the heat and humidity you will probably need to reapply.J
What scent repels horseflies?
Horse flies torture horses and other animals, including humans, with abandon. An accidental but long-standing remedy that horse flies seem to hate is Avon’s Skin-So-Soft bath oil. Vinegar — white or apple cider — is another. Each is safe for animals or people; just pour in spray bottles and apply.
What essential oils repel horse flies?
These include peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, clove, rosemary, basil, tea tree, lemongrass, catnip and cedar. Many people like some or all of these scents, making them more pleasant for you to use.
What home remedy keeps flies off horses?
Vinegar. Vinegar can either be used as a fly spray or fed to your horse to keep flies away. If feeding vinegar, use a food quality apple cider vinegar and feed 2 to 4 ounces per day.
