Why Some Horses Attract More Flies—and What You Can Do About It

Ever wonder why some horses seem to attract flies more than others? The answer goes beyond surface-level factors like sweat or climate. In many cases, it’s a reflection of what’s happening inside the horse’s body.

Flies Are Drawn to Specific Body Odors—Often Caused by Internal Imbalances

Horses with irritated skin, altered sweat chemistry, or mineral deficiencies can emit stronger or more distinct odors that flies find irresistible. These odors often result from subtle disruptions in the body’s internal balance, particularly related to nutrition and detoxification.

🧬 The Science Behind Fly Attraction

Sweat is more than water—it’s a complex mix of salts, proteins, and metabolites. When a horse’s system is out of balance, the composition of their sweat can change, sometimes creating an ideal environment for flies. Likewise, inefficient detoxification can lead to skin irritation and an increase in volatile compounds released through the skin.

Support from the Inside Out

This is where targeted nutrition can make a difference. By supporting mineral balance, detoxification, and healthy sweat production, we can help reduce the factors that make some horses more appealing to flies.

Final Thoughts

A healthier internal environment means a less attractive target for pests—and a more comfortable horse during fly season. Fly attraction isn’t just about the bugs—it’s often a signal of internal imbalance. Support your horse with smarter nutrition and help them stay resilient, inside and out.