Sweet Itch Rugs & Masks for Icelandic Horses

Which sweet itch rugs are suitable for Icelandic horses?

Sweet itch rugs can not only alleviate the symptoms of sweet itch in Icelandic horses but also serve as a preventive measure. One of the causes of sweet itch in Icelandic horses can be, among other things, an overreaction to insect bites. The histamine formed during an insect bite, which causes itching, is then not broken down. As a result, the horse develops persistent itching all over its body, causing it to rub itself until its skin breaks. Particularly affected are the mane and dock area.

For more information on the causes of sweet itch, you can read our guide.

To protect the Icelandic horse from the multitude of bites, it is recommended to use a sweet itch rug during the insect-intensive summer months. This should shield the horse extensively from biting midges, mosquitoes and horseflies.

When purchasing a sweet itch rug, consider the physical build of Icelandic horses. They have short backs but often voluminous necks. Flexible materials that adapt to the horses movements and body shape are therefore advisable. A generous belly flap and tail flap cover the hairless areas where insects prefer to settle. A neck piece is essential for a sweet itch rug for Icelandic horses, as midges in particular gather along the mane during evenings, causing intense itching.

Likewise, a finely meshed, breathable material is important. The rug must not offer even the smallest insects any opportunity to attack. At the same time, the horse must not suffer from heat buildup under the rug due to moisture and warmth that cannot be transported outwards. Therefore, look for sweet itch rugs for Icelandic horses that are made of elastic, breathable functional materials.

In addition to a sweet itch rug, fly masks or sweet itch masks for Icelandic horses are advisable. Mask models that can be attached to the rug are recommended.