Preventing summer eczema in time

Taking early action against summer eczema in horses

For horses with summer eczema, the cold season usually brings noticeable relief. Skin irritations subside, open sores heal, and the coat gradually grows back. For owners, too, this phase means less grooming work.

However, as temperatures rise in the spring, this period of respite comes to an end and concerns about a recurrence of symptoms grow. This makes timely prevention all the more important: A needs-based supply of nutrients and a balanced diet support metabolism and can help make the skin more resilient. In this way, the typical symptoms of summer eczema can be alleviated and the risk of a recurrence reduced.

Summer eczema in horses: triggers and typical signs

Summer eczema is caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to the saliva of certain midges. The proteins contained in this saliva trigger an allergic reaction in the affected horse, which manifests primarily as severe itching.

The severity of the symptoms varies significantly: Some horses show only mild rubbing around the mane or base of the tail. In more severe cases, the itching is so intense that the animals rub their skin raw. The resulting open sores can become inflamed and further intensify the itching - a self-perpetuating cycle. Areas such as the mane crest, base of the tail, ears, and the belly line are particularly frequently affected.

It is also important to note that summer eczema is not contagious. However, especially in the early stages, it can easily be confused with other skin problems such as mite infestation or fungal infections, as the initial signs - such as itching, dandruff, and rubbing - are similar.

Factors such as an unbalanced diet, nutrient deficiencies, or an overburdened metabolism can further exacerbate the symptoms. Conversely, an adjusted feeding regimen can positively influence the course of the condition. Early, needs-based care and targeted support for the metabolism can help better prepare the skin for the stressful insect season.

Summer eczema in horses – supporting the skin early on

To ensure that the skin of a horse with eczema can regenerate optimally during the quiet winter months, a targeted supply of essential nutrients is crucial. The molting season is particularly demanding, as the body must simultaneously manage both hair regrowth and skin renewal. During this time, the need for certain nutrients increases significantly - particularly vitamin A, various B vitamins, trace elements such as zinc, copper, and selenium, as well as sulfur compounds.

A balanced supply can be ensured through a high-quality mineral feed, such as EQUIPUR - organ, and effectively supported by a supplemental dose of EQUIPUR - skin.

To best prepare the skin for the upcoming insect season and reduce the severity of symptoms, it is recommended to start nutritional supplementation early—ideally several weeks before the coat change. For horses with eczema, continuous feeding throughout the summer months may also be beneficial to stabilize the skin in the long term.

Summer eczema in horses – when metabolism reaches its limits

Metabolism plays a central role in successfully supporting horses with summer eczema. In affected horses, this process often runs at full speed: The body’s reaction to insect bites triggers the release of increased levels of inflammatory mediators, leading to skin irritation and inflammation. At the same time, the body is constantly engaged in repair and healing processes.

Among other things, these processes require an increased supply of zinc. This trace element is essential for numerous enzymatic functions, particularly in the liver. If the supply is insufficient, skin regeneration and the liver’s detoxification capacity can be impaired. As a result, metabolic waste products can accumulate in the body, further increasing sensitivity to external stimuli such as insect bites.

Feeding horses with summer eczema according to their needs

Horses affected by summer eczema often belong to hardy breeds such as draft horses, Icelandic horses, Tinkers, or Friesians. These animals generally require relatively little feed and are sensitive to high protein levels in their diet. Therefore, their feed should be deliberately low in protein.

The foundation should be high-quality, late-harvested hay with a lower protein content. Particular attention must be paid to ensuring impeccable quality, as dust or mold can place additional strain on the horse’s already stressed metabolism. Concentrated feed should only be used when actually needed. If the energy intake from the forage is insufficient, it can be supplemented with moderate amounts of pre-digested grains and high-quality vegetable oils.

EquiPower Leinöl , for example, is ideal for this purpose. It provides valuable unsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, without overburdening the metabolism with high protein content. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids can have anti-inflammatory effects and benefit the skin.

A targeted supply of vitamins and minerals is essential for optimal support of skin and metabolic processes. Horses with summer eczema have increased requirements, particularly for zinc, but also for copper, selenium, and vitamins A, E, and the B complex.

Zinc intake should be about twice as high as in healthy horses, while other skin-related nutrients are needed in about 1.5 times the amount. Since these requirements are usually not fully met by a conventional mineral feed, it is recommended to combine it with a special skin supplement, such as EQUIPUR - skin. This helps relieve the body’s burden and provides long-term support for the skin’s function.

Expert tip: targeted nutrition to prevent summer eczema

For horses with summer eczema, it is advisable to start providing targeted skin support early on. Ideally, this should begin as early as late winter (around February) by supplementing the diet with a special feed supplement designed to support the skin, such as EQUIPUR - skin. This ensures that the increased nutritional needs during the coat change are met and the skin is specifically strengthened.

In many cases, this can significantly alleviate the severity of symptoms or reduce them from the outset. Even if initial symptoms have already appeared, targeted supplementation is advisable: The nutrients it contains promote skin regeneration while supporting metabolism. In such situations, longer-term use at a higher dosage is often necessary.

In addition, a supportive spring treatment has proven effective in relieving the body’s strain. Products such as EQUIPUR - renal , which contains diuretic herbs, promote the elimination of metabolic waste, while EQUIPUR - metabol, with its liver-supporting ingredients, aids the body’s detoxification process.

In addition to feeding, housing conditions also play an important role. A stable with as few insects as possible—for example, through fly screens or strip curtains—significantly reduces the burden. Additionally, a well-fitting, breathable eczema blanket can help protect the horse from insects during the grazing season.

Furthermore, a well-tolerated insect repellent such as EquiPower Fliegenspray can help effectively keep biting and annoying insects at bay.

A quick overview – preventing summer eczema

Start early: Begin providing targeted nutrition as early as late winter (around February)
Know the triggers: An allergic reaction to mosquito saliva causes the characteristic itching and skin inflammation
Keep an eye on typical areas: The mane, base of the tail, ears, and belly are particularly prone to symptoms
Adjust the diet: A low-protein, high-quality diet with top-quality hay forms the foundation
Targeted skin support: The increased need for zinc, vitamins A, E, and B vitamins, as well as other trace elements, must be met
Targeted supplementation: Products like EQUIPUR skin provide long-term support for skin and coat regeneration
Relieve the metabolism: Spring detox regimens with EQUIPUR renal (kidney) and EQUIPUR metabol (liver) help strengthen the metabolism and indirectly relieve the skin
Take symptoms seriously: The first signs of rubbing or itching should be seen as a signal for immediate support and dietary adjustments
Optimize living conditions: Insect exposure should be reduced through appropriate measures (e.g., fly screens, eczema blankets)
Think holistically: Only by considering diet, metabolism, and living conditions together can symptoms be effectively minimized