Fliegenspray Pferd Selber Machen Mit Lavendel

Many horse owners seek natural and effective ways to protect their animals from bothersome flies and insects. A homemade fly spray using lavender offers a gentler alternative to commercial products, potentially reducing exposure to harsh chemicals while still providing effective relief. This article provides a detailed guide on how to make your own lavender fly spray for horses, ensuring both effectiveness and safety.

Why Lavender?

Lavender boasts several properties that make it an excellent ingredient in a homemade fly spray:

Insect Repellent: Lavender contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, known for their insect-repelling qualities. These compounds deter flies, mosquitoes, and other biting insects.
Soothing Properties: Lavender's calming scent can help soothe horses, especially those prone to anxiety or stress. This can be beneficial during fly season, which can be a stressful time for many horses.
Antiseptic and Anti-inflammatory: Lavender possesses mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin from insect bites and prevent secondary infections.
Natural and Gentle: Compared to many commercial fly sprays, lavender is a natural and generally gentler option, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or skin sensitivities in horses. However, always perform a patch test before applying any new product extensively.

Ingredients for Homemade Lavender Fly Spray

Here’s a basic recipe for a lavender fly spray, along with explanations for each ingredient:

Lavender Essential Oil: 30-60 drops (depending on desired concentration). Ensure you use pure lavender essential oil, free from synthetic additives. The stronger the concentration, the more effective the spray, but start with a lower concentration for sensitive horses.
Witch Hazel: 250 ml. Witch hazel acts as a natural antiseptic and astringent. It helps to soothe irritated skin and distribute the essential oils evenly. Choose an alcohol-free witch hazel to avoid drying out the horse's skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): 250 ml. ACV has a natural acidity that insects dislike. It also helps to balance the pH of the spray and can contribute to a healthy coat. Ensure it's unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the "mother" for maximum benefits.
Distilled Water: 500 ml. Distilled water is preferred over tap water to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination and ensure a longer shelf life for the spray.
Vegetable Glycerin (Optional): 1-2 tablespoons. Vegetable glycerin acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin and helping the spray adhere better to the horse's coat. This is particularly beneficial for horses with dry skin.
Spray Bottle: A clean, empty spray bottle (1 liter capacity). Ensure the spray bottle is clean and has a nozzle that produces a fine mist.

Instructions for Making Lavender Fly Spray

Follow these steps to prepare your homemade lavender fly spray:

Combine Ingredients: In a clean container, combine the witch hazel, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable glycerin (if using).
Add Essential Oil: Add the lavender essential oil to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the oil is properly dispersed.
Add Water: Pour in the distilled water and stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Transfer to Spray Bottle: Carefully pour the mixture into the clean spray bottle.
Shake Well: Secure the spray nozzle and shake the bottle vigorously to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Application Tips

To ensure the fly spray is effective and safe for your horse, follow these application guidelines:

Patch Test: Before applying the spray extensively, perform a patch test on a small area of your horse's skin (e.g., behind the ear or on the inside of the leg) to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities. Wait 24 hours to observe for any redness, itching, or swelling.
Avoid Sensitive Areas: Avoid spraying the fly spray directly into your horse's eyes, nostrils, and mouth. Be cautious around open wounds or irritated skin.
Application Technique: Spray the fly spray evenly over your horse's body, paying particular attention to areas that are prone to fly bites, such as the legs, belly, chest, and neck. You can use a soft cloth to apply the spray to sensitive areas like the face and ears.
Frequency of Application: Reapply the fly spray every few hours, especially during peak fly activity. The frequency may vary depending on the weather conditions and the level of insect activity.
Shake Before Use: Always shake the spray bottle well before each use to ensure the ingredients are properly mixed.
Storage: Store the fly spray in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. This will help preserve the potency of the essential oils and prevent the spray from deteriorating.

Variations and Additions

You can customize your lavender fly spray by adding other natural ingredients known for their insect-repelling properties. Here are a few options:

Citronella Essential Oil: Add 10-20 drops of citronella essential oil to enhance the spray's insect-repelling power. Citronella is a well-known natural insect repellent.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Add 10-20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil for its insect-repelling and anti-inflammatory properties. Be cautious when using eucalyptus, as some horses may be sensitive to it.
Peppermint Essential Oil: Add 10-20 drops of peppermint essential oil for its cooling and insect-repelling effects. Peppermint can also help soothe irritated skin.
Neem Oil: Add 1-2 tablespoons of neem oil to the mixture. Neem oil is a potent natural insecticide and can help protect against a wider range of pests. Be aware that neem oil has a strong, distinct odor.
Dried Herbs: You can infuse the distilled water with dried herbs like lavender, rosemary, or mint before making the spray. Steep the herbs in hot water for several hours, then strain the water before using it in the recipe.

Safety Precautions

While homemade fly spray is generally safer than commercial products, it's essential to take certain precautions:

Essential Oil Quality: Always use high-quality, pure essential oils from reputable sources. Synthetic or adulterated oils may be ineffective or even harmful.
Dilution: Essential oils are potent and should always be diluted properly before use on animals. Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to your horse's skin.
Allergic Reactions: Be aware of potential allergic reactions. Perform a patch test before applying the spray extensively. If your horse shows any signs of irritation, discontinue use immediately.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Consult with your veterinarian before using essential oil-based fly sprays on pregnant or lactating mares. Some essential oils may not be safe for use during pregnancy.
Foals: Use caution when applying fly spray to foals. Their skin is more sensitive, and they may be more prone to allergic reactions. Dilute the spray further for foals.
Consult Your Veterinarian: If you have any concerns about using homemade fly spray on your horse, consult with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your horse's individual needs and health condition.

Troubleshooting

If your homemade lavender fly spray isn't as effective as you'd like, consider the following:

Essential Oil Concentration: Increase the amount of lavender essential oil slightly. However, be mindful of potential skin sensitivities.
Application Frequency: Reapply the spray more frequently, especially during peak fly activity.
Ingredient Quality: Ensure you're using high-quality ingredients, particularly the essential oils and apple cider vinegar.
Weather Conditions: Consider the weather conditions. Fly spray may be less effective on hot, humid days or after rain.
Environmental Factors: Address any environmental factors that may be attracting flies, such as manure piles or stagnant water. Proper stable management is crucial for controlling fly populations.

By following these guidelines, you can create a safe, effective, and natural lavender fly spray to protect your horse from bothersome insects. Remember to prioritize your horse's safety and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.