Ticks on Horses

How to check, remove them safely, and the disease risks involved

Quick Answer

Ticks are common on grazing horses, particularly in long grass, woodland edges, and rough pasture
They attach to the skin to feed and can be found anywhere, but often favour thinner-skinned areas
Some ticks can carry diseases that affect horses, and certain tick-borne diseases can also affect people
Removing a tick correctly, and checking regularly, reduces the risk of disease transmission

Where Ticks Are Often Found

Around the head, ears, and muzzle
Under the mane and along the neck
The belly and inner legs, where skin is thinner
The groin and sheath/udder area

Removing a Tick Safely

Use a tick removal tool rather than fingers, for a clean and complete removal.
Grasp the tick close to the skin, as near to the mouthparts as possible.
Pull steadily and firmly, without twisting or jerking, to avoid leaving mouthparts behind.
Clean the bite area afterwards with a mild, vet-approved antiseptic if available.
Monitor the site over the following days for swelling, heat, or discharge.

Avoid

Don’t Do This

Don’t twist, crush, or squeeze the tick’s body during removal
Don’t use heat, petroleum jelly, or other home remedies to try to make the tick detach
Don’t use fingernails alone if a proper removal tool is available

Worth knowing: Some ticks can carry diseases such as Lyme disease, which can also affect people. Checking your horse regularly, and protecting yourself when handling ticks (such as washing hands afterwards), is sensible practice for both of you.

When to Contact Your Vet

The bite site becomes swollen, hot, or starts discharging after removal
Part of the tick’s mouthparts remain embedded after attempted removal
Your horse develops lethargy, lameness, or stiffness in the days following a tick bite
You find ticks repeatedly despite preventative measures

How Pet Med Direct Can Help

Pet Med Direct stocks tick removal tools and preventative repellents to support a regular tick-checking routine during grazing season.

Some treatments require a valid veterinary prescription. Pet Med Direct can only supply prescription medicines after the prescription has been checked. Always follow your vet’s advice and the directions on the product label.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my horse for ticks?

Daily checks during the warmer months are a good habit, particularly if your horse grazes near woodland, long grass, or bracken.

Are some seasons worse for ticks than others?

Ticks tend to be most active in spring and autumn in the UK, though they can be present at other times depending on weather conditions.

Can grazing management help reduce ticks?

Keeping grass shorter and reducing access to dense undergrowth or bracken can help lower the number of ticks your horse picks up while grazing.

Does every tick bite cause illness?

No — most tick bites don’t lead to disease, but it’s still worth removing ticks promptly and monitoring the site, since the risk increases the longer a tick stays attached.

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This this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice.
If you are concerned with your dog’s health, please consult a qualified veterinarian.