The Ultimate Guide to Fly & Bug Control for Horses (With Must-Have Products!)

Kati Turcotte
Jun 8
2 min read

A close-up of a horse's eye shows numerous flies gathered on its face, highlighting a common annoyance in equine environments.

Nothing ruins a peaceful ride or productive training session faster than a cloud of flies buzzing around your horse. Not only are these pests annoying—they can cause skin irritation, transmit disease, and create a stressful environment for your equine partner.

Let’s break down some of the best strategies (and products) to help you keep your horses comfortable and bug-free all season long.

1. Start with a Solid Fly Spray

Fly spray is the first line of defense in your bug control routine. Whether you're doing barn chores, heading out on the trail, or turning out in the pasture—having a reliable spray on hand is key.

Top Pick: Absorbine UltraShield EX Fly Spray This long-lasting, weatherproof formula kills and repels flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. It’s great for daily use and holds up in humid conditions.

Looking for a more natural alternative?

Natural Option: Farnam Nature’s Defense Fly Repellent A gentle herbal blend that’s perfect for horses with sensitive skin or those who react to harsher chemicals.

2. Protect with Fly Masks & Sheets

Fly masks and sheets are a must-have for turnout and trailering.

Best Fly Mask: Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Mask with Ears This mask offers full coverage, UV protection, and is built to stay put—even during a good roll in the dirt.

Fly Sheet Favorite: Amigo Bug Rug Fly Sheet Lightweight and breathable, this sheet keeps your horse cool while protecting against flies, mosquitoes, and sunburn.

3. Keep the Barn Bug-Free

Don’t forget to tackle the source—flies breed in manure, damp bedding, and leftover grain.

Barn Maintenance Musts:

Clean stalls daily
Dump water buckets and scrub regularly
Keep feed in sealed containers

Helpful Tools:

Country Vet Fly Spray Dispenser Kit – An automatic dispenser that sprays fly repellent at intervals. Set it and forget it!
Sticky Fly Traps – Hang these near manure piles or barn doors for extra fly-catching power.

4. Feed-Through Fly Control

Feed-through fly control works by passing an insect growth regulator through your horse’s system, disrupting the fly’s life cycle before it begins.

Best Choice: Simplifly Feed-Through Fly ControlEasy to add to daily grain rations and safe for continuous use during fly season.

5. Bonus: Essential Oils That Help Repel Bugs

Want to make your own fly spray or supplement your routine? Here are a few essential oils known to deter bugs:

Citronella
Eucalyptus
Lavender
Peppermint
Tea Tree

DIY Supply Starter: Plant Therapy Essential Oils Set

Final Thoughts

A multi-layered approach is the best way to keep your horse comfortable, healthy, and bug-free. Whether you're battling biting flies, pesky gnats, or disease-carrying ticks—having the right tools and strategies in place makes all the difference.

Happy riding—and may your barn be blissfully bug-free!

The Ultimate Guide to Fly & Bug Control for Horses (With Must-Have Products!)

Nothing ruins a peaceful ride or productive training session faster than a cloud of flies buzzing around your horse. Not only are these pests annoying—they can cause skin irritation, transmit disease, and create a stressful environment for your equine partner.

Let’s break down some of the best strategies (and products) to help you keep your horses comfortable and bug-free all season long.

1. Start with a Solid Fly Spray

Fly spray is the first line of defense in your bug control routine. Whether you're doing barn chores, heading out on the trail, or turning out in the pasture—having a reliable spray on hand is key.

Top Pick: Absorbine UltraShield EX Fly Spray This long-lasting, weatherproof formula kills and repels flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. It’s great for daily use and holds up in humid conditions.

Looking for a more natural alternative?

Natural Option: Farnam Nature’s Defense Fly Repellent A gentle herbal blend that’s perfect for horses with sensitive skin or those who react to harsher chemicals.

2. Protect with Fly Masks & Sheets

Fly masks and sheets are a must-have for turnout and trailering.

Best Fly Mask: Cashel Crusader Horse Fly Mask with Ears This mask offers full coverage, UV protection, and is built to stay put—even during a good roll in the dirt.

Fly Sheet Favorite: Amigo Bug Rug Fly Sheet Lightweight and breathable, this sheet keeps your horse cool while protecting against flies, mosquitoes, and sunburn.

3. Keep the Barn Bug-Free

Don’t forget to tackle the source—flies breed in manure, damp bedding, and leftover grain.

Barn Maintenance Musts:

Clean stalls daily

Dump water buckets and scrub regularly

Keep feed in sealed containers

Helpful Tools:

Country Vet Fly Spray Dispenser Kit – An automatic dispenser that sprays fly repellent at intervals. Set it and forget it!

Sticky Fly Traps – Hang these near manure piles or barn doors for extra fly-catching power.

4. Feed-Through Fly Control

Feed-through fly control works by passing an insect growth regulator through your horse’s system, disrupting the fly’s life cycle before it begins.

Best Choice: Simplifly Feed-Through Fly ControlEasy to add to daily grain rations and safe for continuous use during fly season.

5. Bonus: Essential Oils That Help Repel Bugs

Want to make your own fly spray or supplement your routine? Here are a few essential oils known to deter bugs:

Citronella

Eucalyptus

Lavender

Peppermint

Tea Tree

DIY Supply Starter: Plant Therapy Essential Oils Set

Final Thoughts

A multi-layered approach is the best way to keep your horse comfortable, healthy, and bug-free. Whether you're battling biting flies, pesky gnats, or disease-carrying ticks—having the right tools and strategies in place makes all the difference.

Happy riding—and may your barn be blissfully bug-free!

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