Seasonal Itching FAQ

Recurring seasonal itching is caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to the saliva of biting midges.

When a midge bites:

• Saliva enters the skin
• The horse's immune system reacts
• This triggers inflammation and itching

Some horses are more sensitive, meaning their immune response is stronger and does not self-regulate - leading to more intense and persistent itching.

The itching isn't only caused by the bite itself, but the immune response that follows.

After a bite:

• Inflammatory chemicals are released in the skin
• Blood flow increases to the area

This causes itching to continue even after the midge is no longer present.

Repeated bites can lead to:

• Increased skin sensitivity
• Stronger inflammatory responses
• Reduced tolerance to further bites

Without effective management, this creates a cycle of itching, rubbing, and skin damage, making symptoms appear worse as the season progresses.

Clean skin is essential for best results.

Without cleansing:

• Product build-up, sweat, and dirt and dust can accumulate (also things like Fly sprays)
• Effectiveness can be reduced

A proactive approach delivers the best outcomes.

Starting early and maintaining a routine helps:

• Reduce irritation before it escalates
• Keep skin in good condition
• Maintain effective protection throughout the season
• Consider the environment and management routine

This leads to:

• More comfortable horses
• Less visible skin damage
• Reduced need for intensive intervention later

Citromax is a gentle yet effective formula that repels midges and all flying and biting insects.

Produced from Eucalyptus Citriodora Oil.

An insecticide is a type of pesticide that is
used to specifically target and kill insects.

Fewer bites mean fewer immune reactions.

• Soothes skin already affected
• Helps calm irritated, itchy skin
• Supports comfort where inflammation is present
• Aids relief once rubbing or irritation has begun

This means Killitch can be used both preventatively and as part of
ongoing management.

Yes. While early use is ideal, Killitch can:

• Soothe inflamed skin
• Help reduce discomfort
• Support recovery of irritated areas

Starting earlier in the season helps limit how severe irritation becomes.

Itchgard is a soothing lotion used to calm and cool irritated skin on horses troubled by itching.

It helps to reduce damage caused by rubbing to the Mane and Tail areas by conditioning and protecting hair whilst maintaining skin integrity.

Yes, this product is safe to use when competing.

No, they are two different products from the Carr & Day & Martin Health category.

Killitch* is a Veterinary licenced product for the prevention and treatment of Sweet Itch.

ItchGard may help to lesson some of the symptoms, but it will not prevent or treat the condition. If your pony has been given the diagnosis of suffering from the condition Sweet Itch we would recommend Killitch*.

Key Ingredients are derived from plant extracts including - Lemongrass, Marigold, Geranium and Menthol Oils.

Use for at least three weeks starting daily; and reduce the frequency to once per week if still required. Massaging thoroughly into the affected area.

For best results when trying to prevent your horse from itching we recommend washing their coat with Gallop Medicated Shampoo to remove scabs and dandruff.

Flygard Protector is a heavy-duty stable insecticide spray. An insecticide is a type of pesticide that is used to specifically target and kill insects.

Flygard Protector is a stable spray that kills insects.
A fly repellent deters and repels flies, so preventing them from landing on the horses
skin.

Remove animals prior to treating the area with FLYGARD Protector and allow the surfaces to dry before allowing animals back into the treated area.
Do not spray near water, feed or bedding.

FLYGARD Protector has a long lasting knock down effect that will provide UP TO
6 WEEKS protection. However, the actual duration will depend on many factors such
as the particular insect, weather, contact materials etc.