Mites in horses – supporting them from the inside and out
What is a mite?
- Mites are tiny parasitic creatures that live on the skin.
- Horses can be sensitive to this, particularly on their legs.
- This can lead to flaking, scabs or itching.
Horses with white socks (such as Tinkers, Friesians and draught horses) are sometimes particularly prone to this, as heat and moisture can create an ideal environment.
Where is it most commonly found?
- Legs (especially the lower legs)
- Kootholte
- Between the toes/body hair
- Sometimes the tummy or chest
What can cause the skin to become sensitive?
- Warmth + soft skin
- Thick socks → poor ventilation
- Use of wet/dirty soils
- Reduced resistance
- Poor grooming / infrequent brushing
Contact with infected horses
Please note: every horse is different — the key is to recognise the signs and treat them in good time.
How can you tell if you’re susceptible to mites?
Horse owners often notice:
- Flakes
- Scabs
- Itching → scratching / biting
- Restlessness / reaction to brushing
- Thick socks → stuffy
- Irritated skin
- Sometimes you can’t tell much from the outside, but you can still sense restlessness or stamping.
What can you do yourself?
🟢 1) Brush regularly
Thoroughly combing or brushing helps to let the skin breathe.
🟢 2) Cleanse the skin
Use lukewarm water or a mild cleanser → dry thoroughly afterwards.
🟢 3) Surroundings
A clean, dry living space makes a big difference.
🟢 4) Providing support both indoors and outdoors
In practice, a combination often works best.
External support
Regular skincare can help maintain the skin’s calm and balance.
Recommended skincare routine
- Cleaning
- Dry thoroughly
- Soften & protect
👉 Green-XL Shampoo
Helps to gently keep the legs and hocks clean.
👉 Green-XL Leg Cleaner
A gentle cleanser for daily or occasional use on sensitive legs.
👉 Neem ointment
Great for spot treatment and keeping the skin supple.
👉 Universal Cleaner (for materials)
For cleaning brushes, halters, girths, boots and other equestrian equipment.
➡️ Choose what suits your horse and your situation.
✅ Supporting from within
Some horse owners opt for herbal remedies as a supplementary aid.
Common herbs used for this are:
🟢stinging nettle
🟢cleavers
🟢dandelion leaf
They are often chosen to help maintain the body’s balance, particularly when horses have sensitive legs or skin.
Comprehensive support
Would you prefer to have everything in one package?
👉 Mite Care Pack
A combination of internal and external support.
Simple, clear & practical.
Frequently Asked Questions
➤ Do I need to cut the socks off?
Not always necessary — in fact, socks can actually provide protection.
Do brush them regularly and dry them thoroughly.
➤ Are mites contagious?
It is possible that several horses in the area may react sensitively.
So pay close attention.
➤ Does working indoors and outdoors really work better?
Many horse owners find that a combined approach works better,
because you’re supporting several factors at once.
Summary
✔ mite → sensitive skin / itching / flaking
✔ especially with sock horses
✔ Keeping it clean and brushing it are important
✔ Combining indoor and outdoor elements can be lovely
✔ Convenient packages available
→ This is how you can support your horse easily and naturally.