Remedy for Horse Lice

Lice are not a common or dangerous horse parasite, but they do affect horses from time to time. There are two forms--sucking and chewing. Healthy, well-fed and regularly groomed horses are less likely to suffer from either form of louse, but they can be transmitted through contaminated grooming tools and other equipment. Chewing lice cause itching and skin irritations, and sucking lice can cause anemia in a compromised horse. Learn to spot and eliminate lice for your horse's health and comfort.

  1. Where to Look

    • Lice live where there is hair. Chewers like the head, mane, tail and shoulder, while suckers prefer the head, neck and back.

    What to Look For

    • Lice are small, brown insects that can be seen (barely) when you part the hair. A magnifying glass may help.

    Sprays

    • Pyrethroid insecticides control lice in one treatment, but the chemical must reach all the way to the skin. A light spritzing won't do it---the horse must be thoroughly soaked.

    Dusts

    • Insecticidal dusts, worked into the coat with a brush, will kill lice populations. Re-treat after two weeks to kill any subsequent hatchlings.

    Systemics

    • Some deworming products might kill sucking lice, but they are not approved for this use. Chewing lice live on dander---not blood---and will not be much affected by deworming chemicals.

    Shampoos

    • Shampoos can be used if the weather is warm but might require at least three treatments.