Fly Rugs with UV Protection: Shield Your Horse from Sun and Insects
British summers often bless us with warm, sunny days — but for our horses, they can also bring the irritation of biting insects and the discomfort of harsh sunshine. As horse owners, we naturally want to protect them, ensuring they feel as comfortable and cared for as possible when enjoying time outdoors. With UV-protective fly rugs, we can offer our horses the comfort and care they deserve, protecting them from biting insects and the unforgiving summer sun.
Why UV Protection Matters
Fly rugs have always been essential for fending off midges, horseflies, and mosquitoes. However, modern designs now go a step further, helping to guard against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. This is especially important for horses with pink skin, light-coloured coats, or recently clipped areas, all of which are more prone to sunburn.
A UV-protective rug not only helps to prevent sunburn but also preserves coat condition, keeping your horse’s colour rich and healthy. With the right rug, your horse can stay protected against both insect annoyance and sun damage.
What to Look for in a UV Fly Rug
When choosing a fly rug for the summer months, consider a few key features. High UV-blocking ability (over 60% is ideal) provides essential protection against the sun. Lightweight, breathable materials are crucial to keep your horse cool on warmer days, while durability ensures the rug stands up to field life.
Secure fastenings, a good fit, and coverage that includes a neck piece, belly panel, and tail flap will offer the best all-round protection. Opting for designs that allow adjustments, such as detachable neck covers, can help accommodate the UK's ever-changing weather.
Matching the Rug to Your Horse
Every horse has different needs when it comes to summer protection. Horses prone to sweet itch often benefit from rugs with tighter weaves and full coverage, while those spending more time outdoors may require tougher fabrics that handle daily wear and tear.
Selecting a rug that suits your horse’s lifestyle and sensitivity is key to keeping them comfortable throughout the season.
Managing Sweet Itch with Specialist Rugs
Sweet itch is a common condition for horses, caused by an allergic reaction to bites from tiny midges. It can result in itching, patchy hair loss, and skin sensitivity, making extra care important during the summer months. Sweet itch rugs are specially designed with tight-weave, breathable fabrics that prevent midges from reaching the skin while also offering high levels of UV protection.
These rugs typically feature extended neck covers, belly flaps, and generous tail covers for maximum coverage. Choosing a quality sweet itch rug can significantly reduce your horse’s discomfort, helping to break the itch-scratch cycle and protect their skin throughout the warmer months.
Going Beyond the Rug
Although a UV-protective fly rug is a key part of keeping your horse safe in summer, it's important to combine it with other protective measures. Providing shaded areas, applying horse-safe sunscreen to exposed skin, and ensuring rugs remain clean and breathable all contribute to better comfort and health.
Regular checks are important to make sure your horse isn't overheating under their rug. Pairing the rug with a UV-protective fly mask can also help protect the sensitive facial areas that rugs often leave uncovered.
A Happier, Healthier Summer
Fly rugs with UV protection are a smart addition to any horse's summer wardrobe, helping them stay protected from both biting insects and the sun's rays. With the right choice of rug and a few simple management steps, you can ensure your horse enjoys the British summer comfortably and safely.
