If you've ever watched a horse rub itself raw against a fence post, you already know the misery Queensland itch can cause. It's one of the most common and frustrating skin conditions affecting Australian horses — and it's not just a summer problem.
What Is Queensland Itch?
Queensland itch (also known as sweet itch or equine insect hypersensitivity) is an allergic reaction to the saliva of biting midges, particularly Culicoides species. Horses that are sensitive to these bites develop intense itching, hair loss, and skin thickening — most commonly along the mane, tail, belly, and face.
It's most prevalent in Queensland, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory, but horses across Australia can be affected wherever midges are present.
Signs Your Horse May Have Queensland Itch
- Intense rubbing of the mane, tail, and belly
- Hair loss and broken hairs along the topline
- Thickened, crusty, or scaly skin
- Open sores or raw patches from rubbing
- Restlessness, especially at dawn and dusk when midges are most active
Suitable for All Breeds
Stablemate Pro's High Performance Equine Wash is gentle enough for everyday use across all horse breeds, including:
- Thoroughbred
- Quarter Horse
- Warmblood
- Australian Stock Horse
- Arabian
- Standardbred
- Appaloosa
- Paint Horse
- Brumby
- Clydesdale
- Andalusian
- Welsh Pony & Cob
- Shetland Pony
- Miniature Horse
How to Manage and Treat Queensland Itch
There's no permanent cure for Queensland itch, but with the right management routine you can dramatically reduce your horse's discomfort and keep their skin healthy.
1. Wash Regularly with an Antibacterial Equine Wash
Keeping the skin clean is critical. Bacteria and fungi can take hold in broken, irritated skin and make the condition significantly worse. Using a plant-based, pH balanced antibacterial wash like Stablemate Pro's High Performance Equine Wash helps lift dirt and sweat while actively supporting the skin against secondary infections including ringworm, dermatitis, and rain scald — conditions that often accompany Queensland itch.
The 5-in-1 formula also conditions the coat and detangles the mane and tail, reducing the need to brush through sensitive, itchy areas.
2. Reduce Midge Exposure
- Stable horses at dawn and dusk when midges are most active
- Use fly rugs with belly and neck covers
- Apply insect repellent regularly, especially around the mane and tail
- Avoid paddocks near water sources where midges breed
3. Keep the Stable Clean
A clean stable reduces the overall pathogen and allergen load your horse is exposed to. Regular disinfection of stable surfaces, water troughs, and feed areas with a biosecurity-grade disinfectant helps create a healthier environment for sensitive horses.
4. Support Skin Health Year-Round
Don't wait for a flare-up. Horses prone to Queensland itch benefit from year-round skin care — regular washing, conditioning, and monitoring for early signs of irritation. Catching it early makes management far easier.
The Bottom Line
Queensland itch is manageable with the right routine. Clean skin, reduced midge exposure, and the right products make a real difference to your horse's comfort and quality of life. If you're looking for a wash that works as hard as your horse does, Stablemate Pro's High Performance Equine Wash was built for exactly this — proudly Australian-made, plant-based, and proven to support the skin conditions that Australian horses face every day.