Identification and field biology of stable flies, house flies and face flies are discussed in the section on cattle pests. These pests not only feed on horses, but also are intermediate hosts and vectors of internal parasites of horses. The nematodes Habronema microstoma and H. muscae are all transmitted by stable flies and house flies respectively. Face flies feed on the eye secretions of horses and are vectors of eye worms in the genus Thelazia.
Control measures for these muscoid flies are the same as for the pests on cattle. However, horses have sensitive skin, which may be burned by sprays that contain petroleum carriers. Consequently, only insecticides recommended for horses should be used. Masks for horses that cover the face may be the best treatment for face fly attacks on horses. When only a few horses are to be treated, a sponge or wipe may be the most practical way to apply insecticides. Horses perspire, which washes away insecticides or repellents fairly quickly so re-treatment is required at 2- or 3-day intervals.
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Insecticides Suggested for Treatment of Flies on Horses: |
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Insecticide |
ApplicationMethod |
ApplicationRate |
Restrictions and comments |
|
Coumaphos (Co-Ral)
(Co-Ral Fly and Tick Spray)
(Co-Ral) |
Spray or Sponge
Spray
Spray |
11.6 % ELI 1 pt/25 gal water
6.5 % EC 2 qt/50 gal water or 10 oz/4 gal water
25 % WP 4 oz/12.5 gal water |
Restricted-use Pesticide
For horses not intended for slaughter. No more than 6 treatments per year, no less than 10 days apart. |
|
Fenvalerate (Ectrin) |
Spray |
10 % WDL 2 oz/12 gal water |
Apply 8 oz of diluted spray per horse. Do not apply to horses intended for slaughter. |
|
Methoxychlor
|
Spray or wipe-on |
0.05 % Ready to use
|
Follow label instructions. |
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Permethrin (Atroban)
(Buss Off)
(Ectiban)
(Gardstar)
(Permectrin II) |
Spray
Wipe-on, Spray or Pour-on
Spray
Spray
Spray |
11 % EC 1 pt/25 gal water or 3 tbsp/2.5 gal water
7.4 % Permethrin + 7.4 % PBO
5.7 % EC 1 qt/25 gal water or 22 tbsp/1 gal water
40 % EC 5-12.5 ml/2 gal water
10 % EC 2 oz/3 gal water |
Spray to thoroughly wet animal. Repeat every 10-14 days.
Repeat application every 14 days.
Apply 30-60 ml per horse.
Spray thoroughly to wet horse. Repeat in 14-21 days. |
|
Pyrethrins |
Mist, spray or wipe-on |
0.05-1.0 % Pyrethrins + Piperonyl Butoxide Many formulations of ready to use. |
Follow label instructions. |
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Stirofos (Rabon) |
Feed Additive |
7.76 % ROL |
Follow label directions. Horn and face fly control only. |
The information herein is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and that listing of commercial products, necessary to this guide, implies no endorsement by the authors or the Extension Services of Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming or Montana. Criticism of products or equipment not listed is neither implied nor intended. Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the Extension Services can assume no liability for the suggested use of chemicals contained herein. Pesticides must be applied legally complying with all label directions and precautions on the pesticide container and any supplemental labeling and rules of state and federal pesticide regulatory agencies. State rules and regulations and special pesticide use allowances may vary from state to state: contact your State Department of Agriculture for the rules, regulations and allowances applicable in your state and locality. |
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Categories: Livestock Insects, Horses, Stable Flies, House Flies, Face Flies
Date: 03/28/2003