What's the Best Thing to Help Your Horse Fight Clegs and Flies?

It's summer and we are in the middle of the war against Flies and Clegs!

If your horse spends time in the field during the warmer months, you'll know just how irritating clegs and flies can be. From relentless head shaking and tail swishing to stamping, running around the field and rubbing, flies can make summer uncomfortable for even the calmest horse.

The good news is that there isn't just one solution. The best protection usually comes from combining a few different methods to keep biting insects away.

1. Use a Quality Fly Rug

A well-fitting fly rug is one of the most effective ways to protect your horse from biting flies and clegs. Modern fly rugs are made from lightweight, breathable materials that allow air to circulate while creating a physical barrier against insects.

Many fly rugs also include:

• Neck covers for extra protection.
• Belly flaps to protect sensitive areas.
• Tail flaps to help keep flies away from the dock.
• UV protection to reduce sun bleaching and help protect sensitive skin.

A fly rug is particularly useful for horses that suffer from sweet itch or are especially attractive to biting insects.

2. Apply a Fly Repellent

Using a good quality fly spray can make a noticeable difference, especially before turnout or hacking.

For the best results:

• Apply evenly over the body, avoiding the eyes.
• Reapply as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Pay particular attention to the legs, belly and shoulders, where flies often gather.

Some horses benefit from stronger repellents during periods when clegs are especially active.

3. Protect the Face

Many horses are bothered most around their eyes and ears. A comfortable fly mask can help protect these sensitive areas while still allowing clear vision.

Some masks also include ear covers and nose protection, making them ideal for horses that are particularly sensitive to flies.

4. Stable During Peak Fly Times

Clegs and horse flies are often most active during warm, humid afternoons. If practical, bringing your horse into a well-ventilated stable during the hottest part of the day can reduce exposure to biting insects.

Using stable fans (where appropriate and safely installed) can also help, as many flies struggle to fly in moving air.

5. Keep the Environment Clean

Flies are attracted to damp areas, manure and standing water.

Regularly:

• Remove droppings from fields and paddocks where possible.
• Empty water that has been standing.
• Keep feed rooms clean.
• Avoid leaving wet bedding or spoiled feed nearby.

Reducing breeding areas can help lower the number of flies around your horse.

6. Choose Turnout Wisely

If your horse is particularly sensitive to flies, consider turning out during the early morning or later in the evening when biting insects may be less active.

Shelter, trees and breezier areas can also provide some relief during hot weather.

Which Protection Works Best?

In our experience, the best results usually come from combining several forms of protection rather than relying on just one.

A lightweight fly rug, a well-fitting fly mask and a quality fly repellent used together can help keep your horse far more comfortable throughout the summer.

Every horse is different, so you may need to try a combination that works best for your horse, their environment and the level of fly activity.

Browse Our Fly Protection Range

If you're looking to keep your horse comfortable this summer, explore our range of fly rugs, fly masks and fly repellents. Choosing the right combination can help your horse enjoy turnout with fewer distractions from clegs and flies.