Top 10 Horse Fly Sprays for the Summer Season

As the weather gets warmer and horses spend more time outdoors, horse flies become a common nuisance. These large, aggressive flies can cause discomfort, irritation, and even transmit diseases to horses. To protect your equine companion from horse flies, it’s crucial to invest in a reliable horse fly spray. In this article, we will explore the top 10 horse fly sprays for the summer season, along with important factors to consider when choosing the right one for your horse.

Introduction

Horse flies are blood-sucking insects that belong to the Tabanidae family. They are known for their painful bites, which can leave horses with painful welts, and in severe cases, cause skin infections. Horse flies are most active during the summer months, especially in warm and humid areas. They are attracted to the scent of animals and can be relentless in their pursuit of a blood meal. Horse flies not only cause discomfort to horses but can also affect their overall well-being and performance. Therefore, it is essential to take measures to protect horses from these pesky insects.

Importance of Horse Fly Sprays

Horse fly sprays are an effective and convenient way to keep horse flies at bay. They contain insecticides that repel or kill horse flies on contact, preventing them from landing on horses and causing bites. Using a horse fly spray can help reduce the risk of diseases transmitted by horse flies, prevent skin irritations, and keep horses comfortable during the summer season. Horse fly sprays are a crucial component of a comprehensive fly control program for horses and are widely used by horse owners, trainers, and riders to protect their horses from the annoyance and harm caused by horse flies.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a horse fly spray, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure its effectiveness and safety for your horse. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

1. Active Ingredients: Look for horse fly sprays that contain proven and effective insecticides, such as pyrethroids, permethrins, or cypermethrins. These ingredients are known for their ability to repel or kill horse flies effectively.
2. Duration of Protection: Consider the longevity of the horse fly spray. Look for sprays that provide long-lasting protection, ideally for several hours, to minimize the need for frequent reapplications.
3. Application Method: Consider the ease of application and suitability for your horse’s needs. Horse fly sprays are available in various forms, including sprays, wipes, and roll-ons. Choose a method that is convenient and safe for your horse.
4. Safety: Ensure that the horse fly spray is safe for use on horses, and follow the instructions on the label carefully. Avoid using sprays that contain harmful chemicals or are not specifically formulated for horses.
5. Budget: Consider your budget when choosing a horse fly spray. While it’s important to invest in a quality product, there are options available at different price points to suit different budgets.
6. **User Review: Read reviews from other horse owners or equestrians who have used the horse fly spray to get an idea of its effectiveness and safety. Look for feedback on factors such as its ability to repel horse flies, duration of protection, ease of application, and overall satisfaction.

Top 10 Horse Fly Sprays

1. Flysect Super-7 Repellent Spray: This horse fly spray contains cypermethrin as its active ingredient, providing long-lasting protection against horse flies. It also repels other flying insects, ticks, and mosquitoes. It is sweat-resistant and remains effective even after the horse sweats or gets wet.
2. UltraShield EX Fly Spray: This horse fly spray contains a combination of active ingredients, including pyrethrins, permethrins, and cypermethrins, offering a potent and broad-spectrum protection against horse flies and other flying insects. It also provides UV protection for horses with sensitive skin.
3. Endure Sweat-Resistant Fly Spray: This horse fly spray is known for its sweat-resistant formula, making it ideal for horses that sweat heavily during hot summer months. It contains permethrin as its active ingredient, providing up to 14 days of protection against horse flies and other insects.
4. Absorbine UltraShield Sport Fly Spray: This horse fly spray is designed for active horses and provides sweat-resistant protection against horse flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats. It contains a unique combination of pyrethrins, permethrins, and cypermethrins, and also conditions the horse’s coat.
5. Farnam Dual Defense Insect Repellent: This horse fly spray combines pyrethrins, permethrins, and cypermethrins to provide a dual-action protection against horse flies and other insects. It also contains sunscreen to protect horses from harmful UV rays.
6. Pyrantel Pamoate 10% Suspension: This horse fly spray is formulated with pyrantel pamoate, which is effective against a variety of internal parasites, including bots, as well as certain external parasites like horse flies. It is administered orally and provides systemic protection for horses.
7. Equisect Fly Repellent: This horse fly spray is made with natural ingredients, including botanical oils, such as citronella and cedar oil, which repel horse flies and other insects. It is eco-friendly and safe for both horses and the environment.
8. Horseware Rambo Fly Buster Vamoose: This horse fly spray features Vamoose technology, which uses permethrin to control and repel horse flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. It also has a durable and water-resistant formula that provides long-lasting protection.
9. Cashel Quiet Ride Bug Armor: This horse fly spray is designed to be used with Cashel Quiet Ride fly masks and other fly protection gear. It contains a combination of natural botanical oils that repel horse flies and other insects, making it an excellent option for horses that are sensitive to chemical insecticides.
10. Espree Aloe Herbal Horse Spray: This horse fly spray is made with natural ingredients, including aloe vera and herbal extracts, which soothe and condition the horse’s coat while repelling horse flies and other insects. It is gentle on the horse’s skin and provides effective protection.

Application and Safety Tips

To get the most out of your horse fly spray and ensure the safety of your horse, follow these application and safety tips:

• Shake the horse fly spray well before each use to ensure proper mixing of the ingredients.
• Apply the horse fly spray in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, and avoid spraying directly onto the horse’s face.
• Hold the horse fly spray about 12-18 inches away from the horse’s coat and spray in a sweeping motion to ensure even coverage.

• Avoid spraying the horse fly spray on open wounds, cuts, or irritated skin.
• Use caution when applying the horse fly spray around the horse’s eyes, nose, and mouth, and consider using a cloth or sponge to apply the spray in these sensitive areas.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the frequency of application and reapplication, as well as the recommended dosage for your horse’s size and age.
• Store the horse fly spray in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain its effectiveness.
• Always read and follow the label instructions and warnings on the horse fly spray to ensure proper usage and safety for your horse.

Conclusion

As the summer season approaches, protecting your horse from the nuisance and potential health risks of horse flies is essential. With the wide variety of horse fly sprays available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. However, by considering factors such as the active ingredients, effectiveness, duration of protection, and safety, you can make an informed decision.

Investing in a high-quality horse fly spray can make a significant difference in keeping your horse comfortable and protected during the summer months. Remember to carefully follow the application and safety tips provided by the manufacturer to ensure optimal results and safeguard the well-being of your horse.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use human insect repellents on my horse to repel horse flies?

It is not recommended to use human insect repellents on horses, as they may contain ingredients that can be harmful to horses. It’s best to use horse-specific fly sprays that are formulated for equine use.

2. How often should I apply horse fly spray on my horse during the summer season?

The frequency of application may vary depending on the specific horse fly spray and the environmental conditions. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label for the recommended application frequency.

3. Are natural horse fly sprays as effective as chemical-based ones?

Natural horse fly sprays can be effective in repelling horse flies, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the individual horse and the severity of the fly infestation. It’s important to choose a natural horse fly spray with proven efficacy and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.

4. Can I use horse fly spray on pregnant or nursing mares?

It’s best to consult with your veterinarian before using any horse fly spray on pregnant or nursing mares, as some ingredients may pose potential risks to the mare and her foal.

5. Can horse fly sprays be used on other animals?

Horse fly sprays are formulated specifically for horses and may not be safe or effective for use on other animals. It’s important to use horse fly sprays only as directed and avoid using them on other animals without consulting with a veterinarian.