Supplements & Management for Itchy Equine Skin
Farm To Stable: An Equine Nutrition Podcast (TM) · Dr. Nettie Liburt
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Show Notes
To celebrate the arrival of spring here in North America, we've got to talk about the coming bug season! If you haven't listened to the episode about healthy skin (Season 3, Episode 8), be sure to check that out as well, it covers the basics of healthy skin in general. This episode, we will focus on the many horses who suffer from itchy skin and allergic reactions to bug bites. There are plenty of things you can do to help reduce the irritation. Yes, there is a supplement you can feed to help as well!
One major management tip to help: STOP BATHING WITH DISH SOAP!!! It's too harsh for any horse's skin, especially those who are sensitive. Alternatives are discussed in this episode.
Listen in for advice on how to keep the bugs at bay and dietary options to help support your horse. Happy Spring!!
Research Reference:
O'Neill, et al. 2002. Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) supplementation associated with reduced skin test lesional area in horses with Culicoides hypersensitivity. Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research. 66: 272-277. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC227015/