Ever been enjoying a peaceful ride, only to have your horse get swarmed by those pesky horse flies? They bite, they buzz, and they drive everyone crazy! These biting insects can turn a fun day into a frustrating one. It’s not just annoying; horse fly bites can be painful and even cause allergic reactions in some horses.
Choosing the right horse fly repellent can feel overwhelming. There are so many products on the market, all promising to keep those flies away. How do you know which ones really work? What ingredients should you look for, and which ones should you avoid? This decision is important to protect your horses and enjoy your time together.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know. You’ll learn about different types of repellents, what to look for on the label, and how to apply them safely and effectively. By the end, you’ll be equipped to choose the best horse fly repellent for your horse, so you can both enjoy your time outside. Let’s get started and say goodbye to those annoying horse flies!
Our Top 5 Horse Fly Repellent Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
Farnam Equi-Spot | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 |
Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
 |
Farnam Endure Sweat-Resistant Horse Fly Spray | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
 |
Farnam SWAT Clear Fly Repellent Ointment for Horses | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Horse Fly Repellent Detailed Reviews
1. Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray
Rating: 8.5/10
Keep your horses and dogs protected from pesky insects with Farnam Repel-X Ready-To-Use Fly Spray. This easy-to-use spray kills and repels several annoying bugs. It works against flies, mosquitoes, gnats, fleas, and ticks. The convenient 32-ounce bottle comes with a trigger sprayer, making it simple to apply. You can use it on your animals, around stalls, and even on blankets. It’s a great way to keep your pets and your barn comfortable.
What We Like:
- It’s a hard-working and economical fly spray.
- It repels and kills six common insect species.
- You can use it on horses, dogs, and around the barn.
- It’s ready to use, so you don’t need to mix anything.
- It’s budget-friendly and practical for many uses.
- Refills are available in different sizes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may need to reapply it frequently, depending on the severity of the insect problem.
Farnam Repel-X is a good option for keeping bugs away. It is easy to use and offers good value. This is a useful product for any horse or dog owner.
2. Farnam Equi-Spot
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of constantly battling flies and other pesky insects around your horse? Farnam Equi-Spot is here to help! This spot-on fly control offers long-lasting protection for your horse. It gives up to 12 weeks of coverage with one application. It helps keep bugs away and gives you peace of mind. This product is great for horses that spend a lot of time outside.
What We Like:
- It works even when you can’t spray your horse every day.
- It kills and repels ticks. This helps prevent Lyme disease.
- It controls mosquitoes. These can spread West Nile Virus and Equine Encephalitis.
- It is perfect for horses that live in pastures.
- It keeps insects away for up to 14 days.
- It works even if your horse sweats or gets wet.
- It comes in a 6 or 12-week supply.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may need to reapply every two weeks for the best protection.
Farnam Equi-Spot is a convenient and effective way to protect your horse from biting insects. It is a great option for horse owners who want long-lasting insect control.
3. Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide
Rating: 9.1/10
Absorbine UltraShield EX is a powerful insecticide. It kills and repels many bugs. This 32oz sprayer is ready to use. You can use it on horses, dogs, and around your home. It offers protection from pests like flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. The formula is made in the USA and designed to last.
What We Like:
- Kills over 70 different kinds of bugs.
- The formula is strong and effective.
- It protects for up to 17 days with UltraBond Technology.
- You don’t need to mix it. It’s ready to spray.
- Safe to use on horses and dogs.
- It has sunscreens and coat conditioners.
- Made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size of the bottle may not be enough for large areas or multiple animals.
- Some users may find the smell strong.
Absorbine UltraShield EX is a great option for keeping pests away. It’s a convenient and effective product to protect your animals and your home.
4. Farnam Endure Sweat-Resistant Horse Fly Spray
Rating: 9.4/10
Keep your horse safe from pesky insects with Farnam Endure Sweat-Resistant Fly Spray! This spray kills and repels flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. It protects your horse from harmful diseases. This quart-sized spray bottle is easy to use. It’s designed to last, even in tough weather. Endure is a great way to protect your horse.
What We Like:
- Protects against flies, mosquitoes, and ticks.
- Helps prevent exposure to diseases like Lyme Disease.
- Works well in rain and heat.
- Stays active for up to 14 days.
- Uses Repelock technology for lasting protection.
- Comes in different sizes for your convenience.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may want to know the specific ingredients.
- A larger size option for multiple horses might be helpful.
Farnam Endure is a solid choice for keeping your horse comfortable. It is a reliable product that provides long-lasting protection. This spray is worth trying if you want to protect your horse from biting insects.
5. Farnam SWAT Clear Fly Repellent Ointment for Horses
Rating: 9.5/10
Keep your horses, ponies, and even your dogs safe from pesky flies with Farnam SWAT Clear Fly Repellent Ointment! This ointment is designed to protect against biting and nuisance flies. It’s great for wounds and faces. The ointment comes in a convenient 7 oz. jar. You can take it with you anywhere. Choose between the original pink color to see wounds or the clear formula for times when you need a more discreet option.
What We Like:
- The ointment protects against many types of flies, like house, stable, face, and horn flies.
- It is easy to put on wounds and faces.
- The 7 oz. jar is easy to carry around.
- You can choose between clear and pink colors.
- The clear formula is perfect for shows and other events.
- It works on horses, ponies, and dogs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may prefer a larger jar size.
- The clear formula may not be as easy to see where it is applied.
Farnam SWAT Clear Fly Repellent Ointment is a good choice for protecting your animals from flies. It is easy to use and comes in a handy size. You can’t go wrong with this product.
Keep Those Pesky Flies Away: A Horse Fly Repellent Buying Guide
Horse flies are a real pain! They bite and bother horses. Luckily, you can protect your horse with good fly repellent. This guide will help you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for horse fly repellent, look for these important things:
- Long-Lasting Protection: You want a repellent that works for a good amount of time. Some last for hours, others for a whole day.
- Broad Spectrum: This means it keeps away more than just horse flies. It should also work against other biting insects like mosquitoes, gnats, and stable flies.
- Water Resistance: Your horse might sweat or get wet. A water-resistant repellent will stay on longer.
- Easy Application: Look for a spray bottle or a wipe-on option. These are easier to use.
- Safe Ingredients: Make sure the ingredients are safe for your horse. Check for any potential allergic reactions.
Important Materials to Consider
The ingredients in the repellent are what matter. Here are some common ones:
- Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids: These are often used. They are made from flowers. They are good at killing bugs.
- Citronella and Other Essential Oils: These are natural options. They may work well, but sometimes they don’t last as long.
- DEET: DEET is a strong chemical. It is very effective but can be irritating to some horses.
- Permethrin: This is another common chemical. It kills insects on contact.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can affect how well the repellent works:
- Concentration of Active Ingredients: The higher the concentration, the stronger the repellent.
- Type of Application: Sprays are easy to use. Wipes are good for sensitive areas.
- Brand Reputation: Read reviews from other horse owners. See what they say about the brand.
- Price: Don’t always go for the cheapest option. Sometimes, you get what you pay for.
- Shelf Life: Check the expiration date. Make sure the repellent is fresh.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the repellent:
- Daily Use: If you need it every day, choose something easy to apply.
- Trail Riding: A water-resistant repellent is best if your horse sweats.
- Show Days: Consider a repellent that is less oily, so it doesn’t attract dirt.
- Sensitive Horses: If your horse has sensitive skin, test the repellent on a small area first.
- Application: Apply the repellent carefully. Avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Horse Fly Repellent: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to apply horse fly repellent?
A: Usually, you can spray the horse, or use a wipe. Apply it evenly over the horse’s body, avoiding the eyes and sensitive areas. Always follow the product instructions.
Q: How often should I apply horse fly repellent?
A: The frequency depends on the product. Some repellents need to be applied every few hours. Others last all day. Read the label to find out how often to apply.
Q: Is horse fly repellent safe for foals?
A: Not all repellents are safe for foals. Check the label. Some products are specifically made for young horses. It’s always best to consult with your vet.
Q: Can I use human insect repellent on my horse?
A: It is generally not recommended. Some human repellents can be too harsh for horses’ skin. Always use a product made for horses.
Q: What do I do if my horse has an allergic reaction?
A: Stop using the repellent immediately. Wash the area with water. Call your veterinarian if the reaction is severe.
Q: How do I store horse fly repellent?
A: Store it in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat. Make sure the cap is tightly sealed.
Q: Are natural repellents as effective as chemical ones?
A: It depends. Some natural repellents work well. Others may not last as long as chemical ones. It depends on the ingredients and the horse.
Q: Can I make my own horse fly repellent?
A: You can find recipes online. However, the effectiveness can vary. Always test it on a small area of your horse before using it widely.
Q: What other things can I do to control horse flies?
A: Besides repellent, you can use fly sheets, fly masks, and fly traps. Keeping the horse’s environment clean can also help.
Q: Where can I buy horse fly repellent?
A: You can buy it at most tack shops, feed stores, and online retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.