Ah, Spring. A time when the sun shines, birds chirp, foals are birthed, flowers bloom…and allergies and irritations begin!

For horses, one of the most annoying of these would easily be Queensland Itch. The condition is caused by a hypersensitivity to insect bites (in particular midges) and self-traumatisation from scratching the bites, which can cause quite severe irritation. 

Don’t be fooled by the name - this skin condition goes by various different names including Sweet Itch, Adobe Itch, or the more scientific Summer Seasonal Recurrent Dermatitis or Culicoides Hypersensitivity - and can affect horse in any location.  

Just like the dredged mosquito, midges are particularly active in the warm, humid months of summer. A reaction to their bites can cause horses to scratch themselves for relief, often to the point of rubbing their skin bald and raw, which can in turn cause infection. 

We all know what it’s like wehn we have an itch that just won’t go away - we get irritable, stressed and full of discomfort, so it is important to react quickly when you see a problem with your horse. 

The Australian RSPCA suggest taking the following action to minimise the risk of Queensland Itch: 

• Keep horses in insect-proof stables at the times of greatest midge activity (late afternoon and early morning). 
• A fan in the stable will help to keep the midges away (midges are not strong enough to be able to fly in the strong breeze created by the fan). 
• A lightweight ‘cotton’ rug is a must if the horse is to be outside during the late afternoon and early morning. 
• Provide temporary relief of the skin irritation by applying a suitable lotion or anti-inflammatory cream (of course, EquaCare recommends our Remedeaz Oil here!) 
• Seek veterinary or expert advice if the problem persists in the event additional medication or treatment is required. 

Each product in our CuraPet® Remedeaz range - treatment, oil and shampoo - is full of essential and natural ingredients to help soothe, heal and protect the skin from these Spring-time irritations. They work individually or in conjunction with each other for healthier, happier, (and less itchy!) animals. 

With the warmer weather (and the midges) fat approaching, ensure you have the Remedeaz range in your tool kit now to avoid the pain and irritation of Queensland Itch. View the range HERE.