How to treat a horse for lice? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved lice spray or pour‑on to the horse’s coat, covering mane, tail, and underbelly, then repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched insects. Clean stalls, bedding, and equipment with an appropriate insecticide or hot water to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat a horse for lice? - in detail
Treating a horse for lice requires a systematic approach that combines direct medication, environmental sanitation, and follow‑up monitoring.
First, confirm the infestation by inspecting the coat, mane, and tail for tiny, crab‑like insects or their eggs. Look for excessive scratching, dandruff, or visible nits attached to hair shafts.
Second, isolate the affected animal to prevent spread to the herd. Keep the horse in a clean stall with fresh bedding for the duration of treatment.
Third, select an appropriate ectoparasiticide. Options include:
- Topical sprays or pour‑ons containing pyrethrins, permethrin, or carbaryl; apply to the entire body, paying special attention to the mane, tail, and underbelly.
- Systemic oral medications such as ivermectin or moxidectin; administer according to the label dosage and record the date of treatment.
- Dip preparations formulated for equine lice; follow manufacturer instructions for dilution, immersion time, and safety precautions.
Apply the chosen product according to label directions, ensuring thorough coverage of all body regions. Use gloves and protective clothing to avoid personal exposure.
Fourth, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days. Lice eggs hatch within this window, and a second dose eliminates newly emerged nits. Maintain a treatment log to track dates and products used.
Fifth, clean the environment. Wash stalls, paddocks, and equipment with hot water and a detergent that kills insects. Replace or disinfect bedding, and treat feed bins if contamination is suspected. Vacuum the stable and dispose of vacuum bags to remove residual eggs.
Sixth, monitor the horse for at least three weeks post‑treatment. Conduct weekly visual inspections; if lice persist, consider rotating to a different class of ectoparasiticide to avoid resistance.
Finally, implement preventive measures: schedule regular grooming, keep stalls dry and well‑ventilated, and rotate pastures to reduce infestation pressure. Consistent biosecurity practices minimize the likelihood of future outbreaks.