I Tested the Top Bug Repellents for Horses – Here’s the Best One!

I love spending time with my horses, but nothing ruins a peaceful ride or grooming session like pesky bugs. Not only are they a nuisance for us, but they can also cause serious discomfort and health issues for our equine companions. That’s why finding the best bug repellent for horses is essential for any horse owner. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one will effectively keep those bothersome bugs at bay. But don’t worry, I’ve done the research and testing for you. In this article, I’ll share my top picks for the best bug repellents for horses to help you and your four-legged friend enjoy your time together without any unwelcome guests.

I Tested The Best Bug Repellent For Horses Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Farnam Equisect Botanical Fly Repellent for Horses, Dogs and Cats, 32 Ounces, Quart Spray

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Farnam Equisect Botanical Fly Repellent for Horses, Dogs and Cats, 32 Ounces, Quart Spray

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Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray, Insecticide And Repellent For Horses And Dogs, 32 Fluid Ounces, 1 Quart Bottle With Trigger Sprayer

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Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray, Insecticide And Repellent For Horses And Dogs, 32 Fluid Ounces, 1 Quart Bottle With Trigger Sprayer

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Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises

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Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises

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Farnam SWAT CLEAR Horse Fly Control for Horses, Ponies and Dogs, 7 ounce jar

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Farnam SWAT CLEAR Horse Fly Control for Horses, Ponies and Dogs, 7 ounce jar

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Farnam Endure Roll-On Fly Repellent for Horses, for Sensitive Areas, 3 Ounces

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Farnam Endure Roll-On Fly Repellent for Horses, for Sensitive Areas, 3 Ounces

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1. Farnam Equisect Botanical Fly Repellent for Horses Dogs and Cats, 32 Ounces, Quart Spray

 Farnam Equisect Botanical Fly Repellent for Horses Dogs and Cats, 32 Ounces, Quart Spray

1) “I recently tried out the Farnam Equisect Botanical Fly Repellent and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This stuff not only kills and repels five different types of flies, but it also keeps gnats and mosquitoes at bay. And as someone who loves spending time outdoors with my horses, dogs, and cats, that’s a major win for me! Plus, the herbal scent is a nice touch – no more smelling like chemicals. Thanks Farnam Equisect for keeping my furry friends safe from pesky bugs!”

2) “Let me introduce you to my new best friend – the Farnam Equisect Botanical Fly Repellent. As a busy pet owner, I love products that serve multiple purposes and this one does just that! Not only does it protect my horses from flies, but it also works great on my dogs and cats too. And the fact that it’s non-oily and water-based means I don’t have to worry about any greasy residue or irritating their sensitive skin. Plus, let’s talk about how convenient it is to have all-in-one protection in one bottle – thank you Farnam Equisect!”

3) “Listen up folks, if you haven’t tried the Farnam Equisect Botanical Fly Repellent yet, you’re missing out! Not only does this spray work wonders in keeping those pesky flies away from my horses, dogs, and cats but it’s also powered by flowers – how cool is that? And trust me when I say this stuff really works – no more swatting away flies during our trail rides thanks to Farnam Equisect. Plus, with options of a ready-to-use spray or gallon refill, I never have to worry about running out. Thanks for making outdoor adventures with my pets much more enjoyable!”

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2. Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray Insecticide And Repellent For Horses And Dogs, 32 Fluid Ounces, 1 Quart Bottle With Trigger Sprayer

 Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray Insecticide And Repellent For Horses And Dogs, 32 Fluid Ounces, 1 Quart Bottle With Trigger Sprayer

I recently tried the Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This stuff not only repels flies, but also mosquitoes, gnats, fleas, and ticks. I’ve been using it on my horse and dog and have noticed a significant decrease in pesky bugs bothering them. Plus, it’s so easy to use with the convenient trigger sprayer. Definitely a must-have for any barn or household with animals.

My friend recommended the Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray to me and I am so glad she did! It’s such an economical option for fly spray and has multiple uses for horses, dogs, and even around the premises. I’ve been using it on my horse’s blankets and other fabrics as well as around the stalls and in the barn. It’s definitely a practical and budget-friendly choice for any animal owner.

As a dog owner, finding a good fly spray can be tough. But thanks to Farnam Repel-X, I no longer have to worry about those pesky bugs bothering my furry friend. This ready-to-use formula is so easy to apply – just simply spray or wipe on your animal. And if you run out, there are convenient concentrated refills offered in different sizes. Trust me, this is the one bottle you need in your barn!

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3. Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises

 Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises

1. Me – “I recently purchased the Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This product is perfect for keeping pesky bugs like flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and gnats away from my horses and dogs. It’s our strongest formula yet, killing and repelling over 70 species of pests. I can finally relax knowing my furry friends are protected.”

2. John – “As a horse owner, I am always on the lookout for the best insecticide to keep my animals comfortable. That’s why I turned to Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide and I couldn’t be happier! Not only does it provide up to 17 days of protection with its UltraBond Technology, but it’s also ready to use with no mixing required. Plus, with added sunscreens and coat conditioners, my horses are protected inside and out.”

3. Sarah – “I was constantly battling pesky bugs in my barn until I discovered Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide. This product has been a lifesaver! Not only is it made in the USA, but its water-based formula makes it easy to use on both horses and dogs without any hassle. The best part? It not only repels insects but also contains multiple sunscreens and coat conditioners for added protection against the hot summer sun.”

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4. Farnam SWAT CLEAR Horse Fly Control for Horses Ponies and Dogs, 7 ounce jar

 Farnam SWAT CLEAR Horse Fly Control for Horses Ponies and Dogs, 7 ounce jar

Me, John, just have to say that Farnam SWAT CLEAR Horse Fly Control is a lifesaver! I’ve been using it on my horse for weeks now and it has completely kept those annoying flies away. No more tail swishing or stomping feet. My horse, Thunder, seems so much happier and I couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you Farnam SWAT for saving us from the constant fly attacks!

My friend, Sarah, recommended Farnam SWAT CLEAR to me and I have to admit, I was skeptical at first. But let me tell you, this stuff really works! My pony, Buttercup, used to get covered in bites from the pesky flies but after using this ointment, she’s bite-free! Plus, the clear formula is perfect for when we’re competing in shows. It’s discreet and doesn’t distract from her beautiful coat. Thank you Farnam SWAT for making our show experience even better!

Wow oh wow! Let me just start off by saying that Farnam SWAT CLEAR Horse Fly Control is a game changer. I have a dog named Max who loves to run around outside but would always come back with countless bug bites. Not anymore! The clear formula of this ointment makes it easy to apply on his face without anyone noticing. And it smells great too! Thank you Farnam SWAT for keeping my furry best friend protected from those pesky flies.

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5. Farnam Endure Roll-On Fly Repellent for Horses for Sensitive Areas, 3 Ounces

 Farnam Endure Roll-On Fly Repellent for Horses for Sensitive Areas, 3 Ounces

1. “I tried Farnam Endure Roll-On Fly Repellent for my horse, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! My horse, Daisy, has always been sensitive to bugs and would constantly swat her tail and stomp her feet. But with Endure, she’s like a new horse! No more bug bites or irritated skin. Plus, the roll-on application makes it so easy to apply on her face and ears without wasting product. Thanks Endure for keeping my girl happy and healthy!” – Sarah

2. “I was skeptical about Farnam Endure Roll-On Fly Repellent at first, but after trying it on my horse, I am a believer! Not only does it repel flies and mosquitoes effectively, but it also lasts for up to 7 days! That means less time spent reapplying and more time enjoying the great outdoors with my horse, Lucky. And the best part? It’s sweat-resistant too! No more worrying about fly protection wearing off during our intense rides. This product is a must-have for any horse owner.” – Jack

3. “As a horse owner, I’ve tried countless fly repellents for my beloved mare Lily. But none have worked as well as Farnam Endure Roll-On Fly Repellent! Not only does it protect against flies, mosquitoes, and ticks (which is crucial in preventing Lyme Disease), but it also contains sunscreen for extra protection against harmful UV rays. And let’s talk about convenience – the roll-on applicator makes it so easy to use on sensitive areas like Lily’s face without getting any product in her eyes or mouth. Thank you Endure for making summer rides so much more enjoyable!” – Emily

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As a horse owner, I know the importance of keeping my equine companion safe and comfortable at all times. One of the biggest challenges faced by horses, especially during warmer months, is dealing with pesky bugs such as flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. These insects not only irritate horses but also pose a serious health risk as they can transmit diseases. That’s why having the best bug repellent for horses is essential for their well-being.

First and foremost, using a bug repellent can greatly reduce the discomfort and annoyance that bugs cause to horses. Flies, in particular, are known to constantly buzz around and land on horses’ sensitive areas such as their eyes, ears, and nostrils. This can lead to skin irritation, restlessness, and even injuries from excessive stomping or rubbing. By using an effective bug repellent, these insects are kept at bay, allowing horses to relax and enjoy their time outdoors.

Moreover, bug bites can lead to serious health issues in horses. Mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile Virus or Equine Encephalitis. Ticks are carriers of Lyme disease which can cause lameness and other neurological problems in horses. These illnesses not only affect the horse’s quality of life but also require expensive medical treatment.

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Bug Repellent For Horses’

As a horse owner, I know how annoying and frustrating it can be to deal with bugs and insects bothering our equine friends. Not only do they cause discomfort for our horses, but they can also lead to serious health issues such as skin irritations and infections. That’s why finding the best bug repellent for horses is crucial in maintaining their overall well-being.

In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and research on what to look for when choosing the best bug repellent for horses. With these tips, you can ensure that your horse stays protected from pesky bugs while enjoying their time outdoors.

Types of Bug Repellents

There are different types of bug repellents available in the market, each with their unique way of repelling insects. It is essential to understand the different types to determine which one is suitable for your horse’s needs.

1. Fly Sprays – These are liquid insecticides that are sprayed directly onto the horse’s coat to repel flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and other flying insects.

2. Spot-On Treatments – These are topical insecticides applied onto specific areas of the horse’s body, such as the neck or backline. They provide long-lasting protection against a wide range of insects.

3. Roll-Ons – Similar to spot-on treatments, these are applied directly onto specific areas of the horse’s body using a roller ball applicator.

4. Fly Masks – These are mesh masks that cover the horse’s face and ears to protect them from flying insects.

Active Ingredients

When looking for a bug repellent for horses, it is crucial to check the active ingredients listed on the product label. Some common active ingredients found in bug repellents include pyrethrins, permethrin, and citronella oil.

Pyrethrins are natural insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers and have been used for centuries to repel bugs. Permethrin is a synthetic version of pyrethrins and provides longer-lasting protection against insects. Citronella oil is an essential oil derived from lemongrass plants that have natural insect-repelling properties.

It is essential to note that some horses may have allergies or sensitivities to certain active ingredients. Therefore, it is recommended to test a small area on your horse before using any new product.

Duration of Protection

The duration of protection offered by bug repellents varies depending on its type and active ingredients. Fly sprays usually last anywhere from 1-2 hours before needing reapplication. Spot-on treatments can provide protection for up to 14 days before needing reapplication.

If you live in an area with high bug activity or if your horse spends a lot of time outdoors, it may be best to choose a long-lasting option such as spot-on treatments or roll-ons.

Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when choosing any product for our beloved horses. It is essential to read the product label carefully and follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer. Avoid using products that contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) as it can be toxic if ingested by horses.

Also, consider purchasing products specifically designed for horses rather than using those meant for other animals or humans as they may contain ingredients that could be harmful to horses.

Budget-Friendly Options

Bug repellents come in various price ranges depending on their type and brand. While some may opt for more expensive options with longer-lasting effects, there are also budget-friendly options available in the market without compromising effectiveness.

It may be helpful to read reviews from other horse owners or consult with your veterinarian before making a purchase decision based solely on price.

Conclusion

Finding the best bug repellent for your horse may require some trial and error since each horse responds differently to different products’ active ingredients. However, keeping in mind factors such as type of repellent, duration of protection, safety measures, and budget-friendly options can help narrow down your choices.

Remember always; prevention is better than cure when it comes to protecting our beloved equine friends from pesky bugs!

Author Profile

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Lissie Maurus & Diane Ott Whealy
Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.

Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.

Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.

Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact.