XL Vets equine factsheets

Sweet Itch is a hypersensitivity reaction to the bite of the midge which produces skin irritation that leads to rubbing, scratching and biting of affected areas, resulting in hair loss and skin damage. In severe cases the whole body may be affected but the most commonly affected areas are the mane, tail and face. The disease follows a seasonal pattern with ponies being affected during the midge season from March to November. Native ponies are most commonly affected but all breeds and types can develop the allergy. Severe cases have signs all year.