Queensland Itch is a skin condition which forms as a reaction to insect bites from midgies or Culicoides. The reaction is an allergy to the saliva in these insects, which creates skin hypersensitivity making the horse very itchy. They can often spend hours biting themselves or rubbing against fences and trees to get relief.
The excessive rubbing can lead to hair loss and raw patches of skin. This can get horses into a cycle of itching, and lead to further irritation from infection, bacteria or yeast that gets into the raw areas.
Itch is not contagious, although it does tend to reoccur annually in susceptible individuals.
WHEN AND WHERE DOES IT OCCUR?
Sweet Itch occurs all over the world! Because sweet itch or Queensland itch is a result of insect bites, it tends to reoccur annually during the warm, humid months when the insects are most prevalent. Midges or Culicoides love wet, humid environments, so coastal areas are often hard hit.
They’re not limited to these areas though, as they can swarm anywhere there is a bit of shade and free standing water, like in long grass, under shady trees and around troughs or wet patches in paddocks.
Midges hate hot, dry and windy conditions!
- HORSE Hemp Oil Support & our HEMP PELLETS Supplement to boost the immune system which generates overall health & wellbeing. This becomes evident in the horse’s coat.
- Externally via HORSE Hemp Support Spray & Nick Off All Natural Fly & Insect Spray. These THREE products support & enhance the internal changes when applied topically.
The two work hand in hand which is why when followed correctly they have the potential to be successful. The results of which we are seeing on a continual basis.
HORSE HEMP 20ml Syringed over tongue daily.
HORSE HEMP Apply topically to affected areas late afternoon/early evening EXTERNALLY
HEMP PELLETS
Small/Medium Horse – 1/23 cup per day.
Large Horse – 3/4 cup per day.
NICK OFF When required use during daylight hours to affected areas.