13/03/2026
🪰🪱 FLY STRIKE 🪱🪰 A common affliction in geldings, particularly older boys....
Fly strike in a horse's sheath occurs when flies are attracted to built-up, smelly sm**ma, laying eggs that hatch into maggots, causing intense irritation, pain, and potential infection. It is most common in older geldings during warm, humid weather. Treatment involves cleaning with warm water, removing maggots, and applying fly repellent, while severe cases require veterinary attention.
Key Aspects of Fly Strike in Sheaths:
Symptoms: Signs include tail swishing, stamping hind legs, kicking at the belly, discomfort, and swelling.
Causes: The buildup of sm**ma (a mix of skin cells, oils, and urine salts) attracts flies, particularly if there is an injury or if the area is dirty.
Treatment:
Cleaning: Gently clean the sheath with warm water and cotton wool to remove eggs and maggots. And or Medical Intervention.
Protection: Apply fly cream or gel (not spray) to the exterior of the sheath.
Important Precautions:
Avoid using harsh detergents or antiseptics like Hibiscrub that can disrupt natural skin bacteria.
Be cautious when cleaning, as affected horses may be in pain and prone to kicking.
Consider using products like Filta Bac for protection, as it acts as a barrier and has antibacterial properties. Better still contact a professional 😉
PM for an appointment
