OVERVIEW OF EQUINE PRURITUS

Pruritus is a common complaint associated with equine dermatoses. Self -mutilation results in alopecia, excoriations, scaling, and crusting; the aesthetic appearance of the horse is often ruined and the horse ma y be unfit for riding or showing. This article specifically addresses those pruritic dermatoses caused by allergies, including food allergy/ intolerance, atopy and contact allergy, as well as by two ectoparasite s, stick-tight fleas and rhabditic mange. The clinical signs, diagnost ic tests, and treatment recommendations are discussed for each disorde r. Insect hypersensitivity and pruritus associated with the other more common ectoparasites are covered in depth elsewhere in this issue.