Recurrent equine summer dermatitis, often simplified to summer dermatitis, is one of the best-known skin diseases affecting horses. Insect bites, more specifically from a certain type of midge, cause itching that can develop into a more incapacitating skin condition for the animal. Because of its recurrence, many owners are looking for a treatment to put an end to summer dermatitis in their horses and are turning to soothing creams and shampoos that can prevent and cure the condition. Which shampoos are suitable for treating dermatitis? What are their prices and other features?
For which type of horse should I use a shampoo against summer dermatitis?
Dermatitis can affect any breed of horse, regardless of its environment. However, there are a number of factors that can increase the risk of a horse contracting this equine disease.
Risk factors for summer dermatitis:
- Your horse is young, between two and four years old,
- Your horse lives outdoors in a humid environment,
- Your horse or pony is a Welsh, Friesian, Icelandic, Shetland, or Thoroughbred Arabian.
Which shampoo to choose for summer dermatitis?
There are many products available to combat dermatitis. Firstly, there are treatments administered internally, such as specific food supplements to be added to the ration. Finally, there are external treatments, such as creams, sprays, and shampoos, which can be used to prevent a horse from becoming infected, or to relieve a horse suffering from summer dermatitis.
Treating or relieving dermatitis without disturbing the skin’s natural balance
Just like shampoos for human use, there are many inexpensive products for horses containing synthetic surfactants. These emulsifiers enable the product to maintain its homogeneity, particularly when the shampoo has a foaming or conditioning effect. The problem is that, although these products may have short-term benefits for the horse, they will relieve dermatitis but weaken the skin’s epidermal film, making it more sensitive to long-term aggression.
Use summer dermatitis shampoo sparingly
We therefore recommend choosing a summer dermatitis shampoo containing natural surfactants. However, even with a good-quality product, it’s important to use it sparingly, and not every day.
Choosing a shampoo with effective anti-dermatitis properties
There are many products on the market, but not all of them have the same characteristics. Interesting properties against dermatitis include:
- Hypoallergenic, soap-free, and pH-free shampoos,
- Essential oils with calming properties, particularly those with anti-inflammatory properties such as wintergreen, or oils with lemony extracts that repel insects that can be vectors of summer dermatitis,
- Fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins to help regenerate and strengthen the horse’s skin.
How much does a summer dermatitis shampoo cost?
A quality shampoo costs an average of 22 euros. Some shampoos may cost more, especially those that are also positioned as creams and feature more advanced properties and active ingredients.
Alternatives to shampoos for a natural approach to summer dermatitis
Mistrust of industrial products, a return to more authentic solutions and the lack of transparency of certain products are prompting more owners to opt for more natural solutions for their pets.
Some of the most common natural treatments for summer dermatitis include:
- Grapefruit seed extract
- Cade oil
- Shiatsu, which detoxifies the liver and boosts the horse’s immune system
- Blackcurrant mother tincture
- Propolis cream
Professional advice on severe summer dermatitis and its complications
Summer dermatitis can have complications and quickly become unbearable and even dangerous for your horse. While natural products and solutions can often be tempting, it is of course advisable to consult your veterinarian if the condition is too severe or if you have any doubts.
