This article is part of our Fly Control Awareness Month brought to you by Absorbine.

As the days get longer and the weather starts to warm up, we as horse owners know that fly season is just around the corner. While flies might not be out in full force yet, now is the perfect time to take proactive steps to minimize their impact before they become a never-ending problem.

Proper preparation can lead to a more comfortable spring and summer for both you and your horse. Here’s what you can do now to stay ahead of the fly season before it even begins.

1. Start with a Clean Slate

Flies thrive in dirty environments, so reducing breeding grounds before flies even have a chance to hatch, is key to effective fly control. Start by cleaning stalls, pastures, and paddocks. Regular manure management can significantly cut down fly populations before they start. If your horses stay in stalls or runs, cleaning them at least once a day will significantly reduce the amount of flies that are in or near the barn.

If you have access to large pastures spreading manure is a great way to fertilize them and keep manure piles from building up near or around your barn.

2. Set Up Your Fly Control Plan

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to fly control, but a multi-layered plan ensures the best results. Consider incorporating a combination of:

• Fly Sprays & Repellents: Use an effective, long-lasting fly spray as a preventative measure before flies appear.
• Fly Sheets & Masks: Protecting your horse with fly sheets, fly boots, and fly masks can prevent irritation, especially for sensitive horses.
• Feed-Through Supplements: Some supplements contain ingredients that disrupt the fly life cycle by affecting larval development in manure.
• Fly Traps & Predators: Fly traps and predators are excellent natural solutions to keep fly populations in check.

Don’t forget to stock up on these items before you need them. The minute the flies start showing up at the barn, you’ll be happy that you have some spray on hand to keep your horse happy!

3. Prepare Your Barn & Turnout Areas

Proper airflow and moisture control can help deter flies from settling in your barn. Here are a few quick fixes:

• Install fans in stalls and aisleways to create airflow that discourages flies.
• Repair any leaks or areas where water may pool.
• Set up fly bait stations in areas where flies are likely to congregate.
• Keep feed bins sealed and keep your grain room clean to prevent attracting flies.

4. Monitor Early Fly Activity

Even if flies aren’t a big problem yet, early signs of their presence can help you adjust your plan before they multiply. Watch for flies on manure piles, in shaded barn areas, or near water sources. If you notice an uptick, it may be time to step up your fly prevention efforts.