Best Easy Horse Fly Spray Recipes
Flies are a common nuisance for horses, causing irritation and discomfort. To keep these pesky insects at bay, many horse owners turn to commercial fly sprays. However, these sprays often come with a hefty price tag and may contain chemicals that some owners prefer to avoid. Fortunately, there are several easy and effective homemade horse fly spray recipes that you can make with ingredients commonly found in your kitchen or garden. Here are some of the best recipes to help keep flies away from your equine companion.
1. Vinegar and Water Spray: Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. The strong scent of vinegar repels flies, while the water helps to dilute the vinegar and prevent skin irritation.
2. Essential Oil Spray: Combine 2 cups of water with 10 drops of essential oils such as eucalyptus, lavender, or peppermint. These oils have natural fly-repellent properties and also leave your horse smelling fresh.
3. Lemon Juice and Witch Hazel Spray: In a spray bottle, mix 1 cup of lemon juice with 1 cup of witch hazel. Lemon juice acts as a natural deterrent to flies, while witch hazel soothes and refreshes the horse’s skin.
4. Neem Oil Spray: Neem oil is a natural insect repellent that can be mixed with water and applied to your horse’s coat. Mix 1 part neem oil with 10 parts water and spray generously.
5. Garlic and Mineral Oil Spray: Crush a few garlic cloves and mix them with mineral oil. Let the mixture sit overnight and strain out the garlic. Dilute the oil with water and apply to your horse’s coat.
6. Avocado and Lavender Spray: Blend an avocado with a few drops of lavender oil and water to create a smooth mixture. Apply this homemade spray liberally to your horse’s coat to repel flies.
7. Citronella and Soybean Oil Spray: Combine 10 drops of citronella oil with 1 cup of soybean oil. Mix well and apply to your horse’s coat to keep flies away.
8. Apple Cider Vinegar and Citrus Spray: In a spray bottle, combine equal parts of apple cider vinegar and citrus juice. The combination of these two ingredients acts as a powerful fly deterrent.
9. Herbal Infused Oil Spray: Infuse olive or coconut oil with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil. Strain the mixture and combine it with water in a spray bottle. This natural fly spray not only repels flies but also conditions the horse’s coat.
Now, let’s address some common questions about homemade horse fly sprays:
1. Will these homemade fly sprays be as effective as commercial ones?
While homemade fly sprays may not last as long or be as potent as commercial ones, they can still provide effective relief from flies.
2. How often should I apply homemade fly spray to my horse?
Frequency of application depends on the intensity of fly activity. As a general guideline, reapply the spray every few hours or when flies become bothersome.
3. Are these homemade sprays safe for my horse?
Most homemade fly sprays are made with natural ingredients and are generally safe for horses. However, it’s always a good idea to test a small area of your horse’s skin for any adverse reactions before applying the spray all over.
4. Can I use these sprays on other animals, such as dogs or cats?
Some of these homemade fly sprays can be used on other animals, but it’s important to research the specific ingredients and their safety for each species.
5. How should I store homemade fly sprays?
Most homemade fly sprays should be stored in a cool, dark place to preserve their effectiveness. Shake well before each use.
6. Can I use these sprays on my horse’s face?
It’s generally recommended to avoid spraying homemade fly sprays directly on your horse’s face. Instead, apply the spray to a cloth or sponge and carefully wipe it on the face, avoiding the eyes and nostrils.
7. Can I use these sprays on pregnant or nursing mares?
Consult your veterinarian before using any fly spray on pregnant or nursing mares to ensure the safety of both the mare and foal.
8. How long will these homemade fly sprays last?
Most homemade fly sprays have a shelf life of a few weeks to a few months, depending on the ingredients used. Discard any sprays that have changed color or developed an unpleasant odor.
9. Can I customize these recipes to suit my horse’s preferences?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different essential oils or adjust the concentration of ingredients to find a recipe that works best for your horse. Remember to always monitor your horse for any adverse reactions.
By using these easy and affordable homemade fly spray recipes, you can keep your horse comfortable and fly-free during the warmer months. Remember to test the sprays on a small area of your horse’s skin before applying them all over and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.