Sudocrem is a topical cream that is commonly used to treat a variety of skin conditions in humans, including diaper rash, eczema, and minor burns. While there is no scientific evidence to suggest that Sudocrem is effective in treating sweet itch in horses, some horse owners have reported using it as part of a comprehensive management plan for the condition.
Sudocrem contains a combination of ingredients, including zinc oxide, which has astringent properties that can help to soothe and protect the skin, and benzyl benzoate, which has insecticidal properties that can help to repel insects that may exacerbate sweet itch symptoms. Additionally, Sudocrem contains other ingredients that may help to moisturize and hydrate the skin, which can be beneficial for horses with dry, flaky skin.
- Suitable for nappy rash, eczema and surface wounds
- Antiseptic healing cream
- Suitable for sunburn, minor burns, acne, bed sores and chilblains
- Hypoallergenic lanolin, to help provide emollient properties
- Keep out of the eyes, nose and mouth
Our organisation is reader supported. When you buy through our links, we may receive a commision.
However, it’s important to note that Sudocrem is not specifically formulated for use on horses and may not be suitable for all horses with sweet itch. Some horses may be allergic to one or more of the ingredients in Sudocrem, and using it excessively or inappropriately can lead to skin irritation or other adverse reactions. If you’re considering using Sudocrem as a treatment for your horse’s sweet itch, it’s a good idea to consult with a veterinarian first to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your horse’s individual needs.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients in Suddocrem and how they might help a horse suffering with sweet itch.
How might zinc oxide help a horse with sweet itch?
Zinc oxide is a compound that has astringent properties, meaning it can help to soothe and protect the skin. When applied topically to the skin, zinc oxide can help to alleviate some of the symptoms of sweet itch in horses by reducing inflammation, preventing secondary infections, and protecting the skin from further damage.
Specifically, zinc oxide can help to soothe irritated and inflamed skin by creating a barrier between the skin and external irritants, such as insects or harsh weather conditions. Additionally, zinc oxide has antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent secondary infections in areas of the skin that have been damaged by excessive scratching or rubbing.
While there is little scientific evidence to support the use of zinc oxide as a treatment for sweet itch in horses, many horse owners have reported positive results after using zinc oxide as part of a comprehensive management plan for the condition. However, it’s important to note that excessive or inappropriate use of zinc oxide can lead to skin irritation or other adverse reactions, and that some horses may be allergic to it. If you’re considering using zinc oxide as a treatment for your horse’s sweet itch, it’s a good idea to consult with a veterinarian first to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your horse’s individual needs.
How might Benzyl Benzoate help a horse with sweet itch?
Benzyl benzoate is an insecticide that has been used to treat a variety of skin conditions in humans and animals, including scabies and lice. When applied topically to the skin, benzyl benzoate can help to repel insects, such as midges and gnats, which are known to exacerbate the symptoms of sweet itch in horses.
Specifically, benzyl benzoate works by paralyzing the nervous system of insects that come into contact with it, making it an effective insecticide. By repelling insects, benzyl benzoate can help to reduce the incidence of insect bites and minimize the skin irritation and inflammation that can result from those bites.
While there is some evidence to support the use of benzyl benzoate as a treatment for sweet itch in horses, it’s important to note that excessive or inappropriate use of the compound can lead to skin irritation or other adverse reactions. Additionally, benzyl benzoate can be toxic if ingested or applied in high concentrations. If you’re considering using benzyl benzoate as a treatment for your horse’s sweet itch, it’s a good idea to consult with a veterinarian first to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your horse’s individual needs.
Sudeocrem seems to be the “goto” cream for many horse owners. Have you havd any success using Sudocrem to treat sweet itch? If so, let us know in the comments and share your experiences!
