Not so sweet

Do you know what sweet itch is, what causes it and how you can help prevent and treat it? We’ve got all the tips you’ll need to keep your pony as comfortable as possible if he suffers from the condition!

What is it?

Although sweet is in the name, the condition is anything but! Sweet itch is an allergic reaction some ponies have to the saliva of biting insects, mainly the Culicoides midge.

The immune system of some affected ponies overreacts to the midges’ saliva, which causes itching and inflammation. All types of ponies have the potential to become affected by the skin condition and it tends to get worse as they age.

When does it happen?

Sweet itch is a seasonal condition, with midges being most active over the spring and summer. However, it’s super-important to plan ahead to prevent your pony being bitten in the first place because once the reaction starts, it’s very hard to stop a pony scratching.

Top tip

There’s some evidence that long-term feeding of supplements that contain Vitamin E can help skin health.

Spot the signs

If your pony has sweet itch, he might…

• rub his head, mane and tail on fencing, trees, gates or his stable door
• bite his skin
• have bare or sore patches on his head and body where he’s been scratching
• have hair missing from his mane and tail
• be agitated or grumpy

Learn more about keeping your pony comfortable if he suffers from sweet itch in April PONY – out now!