Answering the rider’s search for simple, effective fly control, these horse-oriented supplements target fly populations from the inside out. Feed-through formulas work best for owners who want ongoing protection without daily spraying. The top picks below highlight products that are designed to interrupt the fly life cycle, support skin and coat health, and stay palatable for daily use. This guide helps you decide which is best for riders, barn managers, or horse owners with multiple animals.
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| Formula 707 MultiFly Feed-Thru Pellets | Barn owners seeking non-organophosphate, palatable daily feed-through protection |
| Farnam SimpliFly Feed Through | Horses in daily routines needing EPA-approved, larval-stage targeting |
| Manna Pro Nature’s Force | Owners preferring natural botanicals and NASC-certified formulations |
| Farnam Equi-Spot | Pastured horses needing long-lasting topical protection between sprays |
| JustiFLY Fly-A-Salt (Cattle Salt Block) | Barns with mixed livestock; alternative fly control for non-equine use |
Formula 707 MultiFly Feed-Thru Pellets
Active ingredient: Novaluron, an insect growth regulator that disrupts the fly life cycle. Claimed effectiveness is up to 99.9% in reducing fly populations when used as directed. The pellets are alfalfa and wheat midds-based, designed to be fed daily with regular feed. Best for barn environments where owners want a non-organophosphate option that is palatable.
- Best for: Horse owners seeking long-term, non-chemical fly control integrated into daily feeding.
- Why selected: Combines a safe active ingredient with palatability, facilitating consistent daily use.
- Caution: Not an immediate spray solution; results require continual feeding over time.
Farnam SimpliFly Feed Through Fly Control
Starts working by disrupting larvae in manure, reducing fly populations by up to 97% with daily use. EPA-Approved, offering a science-backed approach. This product is from Farnam, a long-standing brand in equine care. Best for: owners who want a proven, regulated feed-through option and rely on established brands.
- Best for: Daily routines seeking validated efficacy against larvae and adults.
- Why selected: EPA-approval adds a level of regulatory confidence and professional trust.
- Caution: Requires consistent daily administration to maintain effects.
Manna Pro Nature’s Force Bug Clear
A natural feed-through formula designed to repel biting insects inside the horse from the inside out through ingredients like garlic and botanicals. Includes grape seed extract and turmeric for skin and coat support. NASC Quality Seal indicates veterinary endorsement and safety for adult horses when used as directed.
- Best for: Owners seeking a natural, botanically inspired fly control solution.
- Why selected: Combines insect-deterrent properties with skin and coat benefits in one product.
- Caution: Effectiveness may vary with feeding consistency and environmental factors.
Farnam Equi-Spot Fly Protection
Topical protection designed to keep insects off horses for up to 14 days per application. Particularly suited for pastured horses or horses on days when daily spraying isn’t feasible. Keeps working between applications and helps reduce the need for daily sprays.
- Best for: Pastured horses or when daily spray application isn’t possible.
- Why selected: Long-lasting protection minimizes daily maintenance requirements.
- Caution: Must be reapplied as directed every couple of weeks for continued protection.
JustiFLY Fly-A-Salt
Salt block for cattle with fly control features; designed for cattle operations but often found in mixed-barn settings. Provides an alternative approach by leveraging salt consumption alongside potential fly-deterrent properties. Best for: Farms with cattle or mixed-species barns where salt blocks are part of feeding routines.
- Best for: Mixed herds or cattle-heavy facilities seeking a supplementary fly-control approach.
- Why selected: Adds a different route for fly management in multi-species barns.
- Caution: Primarily intended for cattle; not a primary option for dedicated equine fly control.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a horse fly control supplement:
- Active ingredient and safety: Look for non-organophosphate options when safety for horses is a priority and verify that the product is appropriate for long-term daily use.
- Mode of action: Feed-through formulas interrupt the fly life cycle at larval stages, complementing topical solutions for a broader defense.
- Palatability and acceptance: A product that horses readily eat with their regular feed improves compliance and effectiveness.
- EPA and regulatory status: EPA-approved products provide science-backed safety and efficacy data; NASC certification is a bonus for natural or veterinarian-approved formulations.
- Application frequency: Some products require daily feeding, others offer multi-day protection via topical methods. Choose based on your routine and barn management style.
- Environment and herd composition: Mixed barns with cattle or multiple horse groups may benefit from a combination of feed-through and topical options, as appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a feed-through fly control supplement?
A feed-through supplement is mixed with the horse’s regular feed and targets flies by affecting their development in manure, reducing adult fly populations over time.
- Do these products require daily administration?
Many feed-through products require daily feeding to maintain steady active levels for effective fly control.
- Are fly-control supplements safe for long-term use?
Most reputable products are formulated for ongoing use, but always follow label directions and consult a veterinarian if you have concerns about allergies or interactions with other medications.
- Can I combine feed-through and topical fly-control methods?
Yes, combining an internal feed-through product with a topical repellent can provide a broader shield against flies, particularly in busy barns.
- What should I consider for pastured horses?
Pastured horses benefit from long-lasting topical protection between sprays and from palatable feed-through options for continuous management.
- Is EPA-approval important for fly-control products?
EPA-approval indicates a regulated and scientifically reviewed product, which can be important for professional assurance and regulatory compatibility in some facilities.