9 best insect repellent for horses

Insect repellents for horses are essential products designed to protect horses from bothersome and potentially harmful insects like flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests. These products help maintain the comfort and health of horses by reducing the risk of insect-related diseases, skin irritations, and overall stress. Here are some key points to consider regarding insect repellents for horses:

  1. Types of Insect Repellents:

    • Spray Repellents: These are liquid formulations that can be applied directly onto the horse's coat, mane, and tail. They provide a protective barrier against flying insects and can last for several hours.
    • Roll-On Repellents: These are typically in stick form and are rolled onto the horse's skin or coat in specific areas.
    • Spot-On Repellents: These are applied to specific spots on the horse's body, usually the neck or withers. They work by spreading through the horse's natural oils.
    • Fly Masks: Some fly masks are treated with insect repellent to protect the horse's face and eyes.
    • Feed Supplements: Some horse owners use feed supplements containing natural ingredients that can help deter insects through the horse's scent.
  2. Active Ingredients:

    • Common active ingredients in horse insect repellents include pyrethroids, permethrin, citronella, and DEET. Natural ingredients like neem oil, eucalyptus oil, and essential oils are also used in some products.
  3. Duration of Protection:

    • The duration of protection provided by an insect repellent can vary.Some products offer long-lasting protection, while others may need to be reapplied more frequently, especially in hot and humid conditions.
  4. Fly Sheets and Fly Boots:

    • In addition to repellent sprays, fly sheets and fly boots can be used to cover a horse's body and legs, providing an extra layer of protection against flies and other pests.
  5. Application:

    • When applying insect repellent to a horse, it's important to follow the product's instructions carefully. Avoid contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, and mouth.
    • Some horses may be more sensitive to certain repellent ingredients, so it's essential to monitor their reactions and discontinue use if any adverse effects occur.
  6. Environmental Considerations:

    • Horse owners should be mindful of the environment when using insect repellents. Some chemicals can have negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems if they wash off into water sources.
  7. Seasonal Variations:

    • Insect activity can vary depending on the season and geographical location. Horse owners may need to adjust their repellent regimen accordingly.
  8. Consultation with a Veterinarian:

    • If a horse is particularly sensitive to insect bites or if there are concerns about the choice of repellent, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian for guidance on the most suitable product and application.

In conclusion, insect repellents for horses are crucial tools for horse care, helping to protect these animals from the nuisance and potential health risks associated with insect bites. Selecting the right type of repellent and using it appropriately can greatly enhance a horse's comfort and well-being, especially during peak insect seasons.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best insect repellent for horses on the market
  

Farnam Equi-Spot Spot On Protection for Horses, 12-Week Supply with 6 Applications

Farnam

Based on 501 reviews Check latest price
  • Defends your horse's health and comfort. Ideal for pastured horses.
  • Weatherproof, won't wash off in rain or when your horse sweats
  • Protects horses for up to 14 days from ticks, mosquitoes, flies, gnats
  • Kills and repels ticks that may transmit Lyme disease
  • Apply once every two weeks for long-lasting control against ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies and gnats
  • Available in a 6 or 12 week supply

User questions & answers

Question: how many in a pack
Answer: 60 days but for me lasts 30days as I have 2 horses on this product. Love the Missing Link and have seen a good difference in my horses since they have been given this product. Lots of gold stars!!!!!!!
Question: It's spring time so there's plenty of rain but the ticks are really bad. Am I waisting my money to put this on a horse that's out in the rain
Answer: Ground Flaxseed, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Cane Molasses, Rice Bran, Primary Dried Yeast, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Ground Hulled Sunflower Seed, Dried Carrot, Dried Apple, Ground Barley Grass, Zinc Methionine Complex, Lecithin, Selenium Yeast, Dried Kelp, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Garlic Powder, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B1), Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12 Supplement.
Question: I have four miniature horses. how much should i apply? they weigh about 250 lbs each. thanks
Answer: It's a daily supplement. I split the daily dose (1/3 cup) and feed it with my horse's breakfast and dinner so he doesn't get such a big amount all at once. And just be aware it needs to be kept in the fridge after opening.
Question: whats the difference between the blue pack and the green pack
Answer: It does have glucosamine in it. It seems to work great for our mare as an overall joint supplement We can tell when she's been off of it for a few days and then put her back on and she does great!

Absorbine UltraShield EX Fly Spray, Insecticide and Repellent for Horses & Dogs, Lasts Up to 17 Days, 32oz Quart Spray Bottle

Absorbine

Based on 901 reviews Check latest price
  • OUR STRONGEST FORMULA: Kills and repels 70+ species of flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats
  • WEATHERPROOF: Protection up to 17 days with UltraBond Technology
  • NO MIXING: Ready to use, water-based formula for horses, ponies, dogs, barns, or on premise
  • BUGS & SUN: Advanced formula contains protection against insects plus multiple sunscreens and coat conditioners
  • USA: Made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: How long does it last after spraying around the doors
Answer: I think so, but you will see the amount of flies reach above the label if you have a large amount in container .
Question: Does this product also kill honeybees? It's for use on on dogs; indicates it kills fleas, ticks, and flies; also kills a zillion other critters
Answer: Yes you can dump the flies and reuse the container, but you would have to use new bait. You can get new bait on Amazon.
Question: Is this oil based
Answer: No, but if your problem with fruit flies is an indoor problem there is an easy, inexpensive solution. Just put some apple cider vinegar in a glass with some water (about a 50/50 mix) with a few drops of dish detergent. Set it next to where the fruit flies gather. You'll be surprised how many it will attract. It won't get all of them, but it'll get the majority of them. Just check the bottom of the glass occasionally and you'll see the little buggers laying there.
Question: Does this repel fleas
Answer: I have 4 dogs so we a lot of flys and it works well. Yes, I believe they will attract the green head flys , wherever there are fly’s , it will attract.

Product features

Kills & Repels

Our most advanced fly spray kills and repels more than 70 species including biting and nuisance flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats.

Sunscreens & Conditioners

Advanced formula contains multiple sunscreens and coat conditioners, including aloe and lanolin.

Weatherproof Formula

Weatherproof for up to 17 days with UltraBond Technology. Ideal for the most challenging conditions.

Water-Based Formula

Ready to use, water-based formula. Can be used on horses and dogs, and as a barn premise spray.

Better Application, Better Protection

· Apply to a clean horse so the spray sticks directly to the hair, not to mud or dust.

· Shake well before you start applying.

· Apply enough product to be effective, which is about 45 sprays (or 2 ounces of product) per application. The coat should feel damp but not soaked.

· Cover the entire hair shaft by brushing the hair up before spraying, then brush down for even coverage.

Farnam Dual Defense Insect Repellent for Horse and Rider, Fly Control, 12 Hour Long Lasting Protection, 10 Ounce Non-Aerosol Spray Bottle

Farnam

Based on 26 reviews Check latest price
  • Protects the whole family, horse and human, from annoying mosquitoes, biting flies and ticks.
  • Provides 12-hour long lasting insect and bug protection for humans
  • Won't damage leather or synthetic materials
  • Contains a pleasant scent and formula is not greasy or sticky
  • Non-Aerosol silent continuous spray mist for complete, but quiet, coverage
  • Easy to apply - it even sprays upside down

User questions & answers

Question: I live in new england where we have biting horseflies. they swarm around me when i run. will this spray keep them away
Answer: Hi Denise - Thanks for reaching out regarding Formula 707 Calming. There are not any corn fillers in this product at all. If you have other questions, or if we can help you in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out! Thanks for considering Formula 707 products for your horses. Best, Kent McKendry General Manager, Formula 707 [email protected]

Farnam Swat Clear Fly Repellent Ointment (7 oz)

Farnam

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Formulated for use around wounds, sores, scratches and abrasions, SWAT ointment is your go-to solution. Ideal for use on sensitive, hard-to-reach areas. Apply daily for effective control against flies.

  • Protects Against Biting and Nuisance Flies
  • Repels house, stable, face and horn flies
  • Effective for hours
  • Use on horses, ponies and dogs
  • Contains Pyrethrins, Piperonyl Butoxide, Technical, Di-n-propyl Isocinchomeronate

User questions & answers

Question: How is this applied? A dab for each area? The instructions aren't included with product information
Answer: The fragrance is mild. I don’t notice it at all.
Question: Can it be used on chicken wounds
Answer: You need to call customer service.
Question: could i lightly apply this to my dogs entire body? she gets darn near eaten alive by black flies while camping. thanks
Answer: Hello. Thank you for your question. ShowSheen products can not be used on cats because cats have very specific sensitivities. ShowSheen is formulated for use on horses, dogs, cattle, llamas, pigs, camels, goats, alpacas, and sheep. Thank you. - Absorbine
Question: Can I use on outside cat
Answer: It doesn't have a "strong" scent, but it does have a scent. It doesn't leave the fur oily. It does leave it silky smooth, once it dries. It doesn't take much. I spray it on my hands, rub them together, and then rub my hands on the cat. I use this product before cat shows, and find that it really works well.

Product features

SWAT Fly Repellent Ointment

Farnam's product of choice for use around wounds, sores and abrasions. It's ideal for use on sensitive, hard-to-reach areas.

Repels:

House flies, stable flies, face flies and horn flies.

Apply Daily!

For hours of effective fly control.

Use on:

Horses, ponies and dogs!

Farnam Repel-X Lotion Fly Repellent for Horses and Ponies, 8 ounce lotion (19903)

Farnam

Based on 60 reviews Check latest price
  • Repel-x Lotion Is A Smooth and Spreadable Lotion To Prevent Insect Bites
  • This Product Is Perfect For Spot Treatment Around Eyes, Muzzle, Ears and Even Wounds
  • Cypermethrin Formula With Botanically Derived Pyrethrins To Repel and Kill Biting Flies, Filth Flies, Biting Gnats, Ticks and Lice
  • Formula Includes Sunscreen and Conditioners For Healthy Skin and Coat
  • Easy To Apply With A Convenient Flip Top Bottle For One Handed Application. 1 Application Works Up To 5 To 7 Days

averPak Pets - Quart (32oz) JT Eaton Kills Bedbugs, Ticks & Mosquitoes Permethrin Insect Repellent Spray for Dogs, Horses, Livestock, Poultry

Based on 64 reviews Check latest price
  • Permethrin Water Based Spray Registered for the direct treatment of Dogs to Kill and Control Ticks, Fleas and Lice. (NOT FOR USE ON CATS OR KITTENS). Registered for the treatment of Pet Bedding, Furniture, Fabric Car Seats & Floor Mats, Carpets, and on Other Fabrics.
  • FOR INSECT CONTROL ON LIVESTOCK - To protect cattle (beef and dairy), goats, sheep, hogs and horses from: Horn Flies, Face Flies, House Flies, Mosquitoes and Gnats. TO KILL and CONTROL STABLE FLIES, HORSE FLIES AND DEER FLIES. TO CONTROL BLOOD SUCKING LICE. TO CONTROL POULTRY LICE. TO CONTROL BEDBUGS AND MITES IN POULTRY HOUSES.
  • OUTDOOR APPLICATION – [PERIMITER TREATMENT]: Use as a residual treatment to control Ticks including the Deer Tick [Ixodes dammini], Lone Star Tick [Amblyomma americanum], Brown Dog Tick [Rhipicephalus sanguineus] American Dog Tick [Demacentor variabilis] and Western Black-legged Tick [Ixodes pacificus].
  • For treatment around structures where pests may enter. Treat vegetation and leaf litter around the outside of buildings to help control ticks occurring there. To help control ticks in outdoor activity areas and adjacent to activity areas, especially where dense vegetation occurs.
  • Registered for Space Spraying - For rapid control of House Flies, Fruit Flies, Gnats, Mosquitoes, Skipper Flies, Wasps, Hornets, Bees, Black Flies, Angoumois Grain Moths, Mediterranean Flour Moths, Indian Meal Moths and Tobacco Moths. (EPA Reg. No. 45385-99-56)

User questions & answers

Question: After you have sprayed your dog and the product has dried, what happens if they lick their fur where the product was sprayed
Answer: When addressing the lack of muscle issue, we would suggest our MuscleMX pellets which are formulated to fuel lean muscle development. To address the anxious behavior we would recommend supplementing with our Calming formula. There are no issues combining the two formulas.
Question: Does this repel Crane Flies? If not, what will
Answer: This product will definitely help with situational anxiety from fireworks, large crowds, competitions, etc. We would recommend administering this product for a few days prior to the start of the firework event, to ensure that your horse's body has adequate time to start processing the thiamine, magnesium and tryptophan contained in this product. Depending on his/her level of anxiety, you may also want to supplement these Formula 707 Calming Pellets with the Formula 707 Calming Paste. This fast-acting paste can be administered 2-hours prior to the event, and will work in conjunction with the Calming Pellets to provide immediate relief in instances of heightened anxiety.

HARRIS Happy Horse Swamp Gnat Lemongrass Insect Repellent II

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price
  • Plant Based Active Ingredients - Repels mosquitoes, Gnats, flies and no-see-ums with plant oils including geranoil, soybean, rosemary, geranium and Lemongrass
  • For Horses & Humans - Unique blend contains plant-based active ingredients without the use of harsh chemicals or pesticides.
  • Effective Insect Repellent - Repels a number of biting insects including flies, gnats, mosquitoes & no-see-ums.
  • Long Lasting, Non-Greasy & Pleasant Scent - Plant oils give off a mild Lemongrass scent, making the spray more pleasant than many other insect repellents while providing long lasting protection

Pyranha Zero-Bite Natural Insect Repellent for Horses, Dogs and Cats - Gallon

Pyranha

Based on 214 reviews Check latest price
  • Country Of Origin: United States
  • The Package Length Of The Product Is 1.0 Inches
  • The Package Width Of The Product Is 1.0 Inches
  • The Package Height Of The Product Is 1.0 Inches

User questions & answers

Question: is this a concentrate
Answer: Hello. The blue box contains a 12 week supply and the green box contains 3 applications.
Question: Is there an ingredient list
Answer: This product grouping includes multiple Formula 707 Fresh Pack products, one of which is Formula 707 Weight Gain (a high calorie supplement which should cause healthy weight gain in horses). Other formulations like Calming, Joint 6in1, Hoof Health, etc. (which are also included in the Formula 707 Fresh Pack family) will not result in this type of weight gain.

Pyranha 001EQSPG 068180 Equine Spray & Wipe Insect Repellent, 1 Gallon

Pyranha

Based on 40 reviews Check latest price
  • Kills and repels flies ticks mosquitoes and gnats
  • Water-Based formula won't attract dust and grime and offers long-lasting protection against a wide array of insects
  • Can be effective for up to 30 days
  • Made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: Do you have to mix with water
Answer: I'm not sure. Your best bet would be to contact Farnam directly as ask their customer service people.
Question: Do you think the “standard size” would fit my 3 year old blm jenny burrow
Answer: Per the image 6 applications
Question: Would the standard size fit a mammoth donkey, or would I need the XL
Answer: Unfortunately, I was very unsatified with this product. It did not work for us on our 2 horses anything like I had expected, based on the recommendation of a horse friend. One of my horses swells up terribly (allergy) to fly bites. The ticks last year were very bad as were the mosquitos. I used this as described and laid out on the packaging. Reapplied about every 2-3 weeks. It still didn't come close to the protection it proclaimed. Another problem were the plastic viles it comes in. They leak and thus you are always loosing the chemicals onto whatever absorbs the oils that they touch. Doesn't do much good on paper or wood shelving or a tack box. So sorry for the poor review, but this is how my husband and I view this product. I would welcome information on anything which provides greater protection. Thank you, Violet
Question: can horse ride in this mask
Answer: I'm not a veterinarian but I would apply one vial at the designated points for all four horses. Observe them carefully and if the flies are still biting or they are coming in with ticks (my major concern) then use two vials split between the horses. The average horse weighs between 1000 and 1200 pounds. I will say that this product has protected my horse who is turned out onto hundreds of acres of pasture (poor little guy!). He never comes in with any ticks on him and the flies don't like him either. It eliminates spraying. I will say that this product is systemic and when I apply it he has a strange reaction. He must be able to taste it. The alternative is not something I want to deal with. We had a horse in the barn with Lyme last year and almost lost him.

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