How to Treat Equine Lice

Often referred to as pediculosis, lice infestation in horses is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. If left untreated, lice can cause a host of different health problems including skin irritation, hair loss and even scarring. Pediculosis should always be treated so that the infected horse does not spread lice to other animals. Foals are especially susceptible to lice. Always check with a licensed veterinarian with extensive equine experience for an official diagnosis and course of treatment.

Things You'll Need

  • Sevin dust (a garden insecticide -- always make sure you buy a non-toxic brand, clearly labeled "Non-Toxic")
  • Pyrethrine shampoo (Vet Kem Flea and Tick Shampoo is a reliable brand safe to use on horses -- always check the label of any brand to make sure it is suitable to equine use)
  • Bucket of water
  • Soft sponge or rags, or garden hose
  • Large spray bottle
  • Several towels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Schedule a house-call with a veterinarian who specializes with equine medicine for a professional diagnosis. Other skin or pest infestations, such as mites or ringworm, can often be confused for lice infestation. Once you know for certain that your horse is suffering from a lice infestation, confirmed by a veterinarian, proceed with the following steps.

    • 2

      Fill a bucket with water and set aside near the horse.

    • 3

      Mix the pyrethrine shampoo with water in a large spray bottle, according to package directions. Typically this involves one part water and one part shampoo.

    • 4

      Spray the entire horse's body with the pyrethrine solution, carefully avoiding the ears, nose and eyes.

    • 5

      Wash off the pyrethrine solution thoroughly with rags or a sponge drenched in clean water (use warm water if the weather is cool). Hosing off the horse with a garden hose is ideal, but only in warm weather.

    • 6

      Towel-dry the horse.

    • 7

      Spinkle a dusting of sevin dust on the floor of the stable or whatever area the horse inhabits. Make sure the brand of sevin dust you choose is clearly labeled "non-toxic."

    • 8

      Scrub all grooming tools, such as brushes, with the pyrethrine solution, and rinse clean. This will help prevent a re-infestation of lice.

    • 9

      Launder all blankets that came in contact, or were near, the infected horse. A regular laundering with household detergent should kill lice.

    • 10

      Clean any saddles that were used on the horse with an appropriate treatment, such as leather cleaner if the saddle is leather.