Fly Sheets vs Fly Spray: Which One is Better?

Think back to the last time you tried to enjoy the outdoors but couldn’t relax because mosquitoes, gnats, and other bugs were buzzing around your head. Chances are you swatted at them and got itchy bites.  

Now imagine not being able to escape them. That’s what your horse is dealing with. And for horses, bugs are more than a nuisance.  

Flies and biting bugs can lead to: 

• Skin irritation and itching 
• Bleeding and blood loss from certain biting insects 
• Stress and behavioral issues like tail swishing, head tossing, or pacing 
• A higher risk of infection or disease transmission 
• Poor hoof health 
• “Sweet itch,” an allergic reaction to midge bites 
• Hair loss from rubbing the mane, tail, or belly 
• A higher risk of secondary infections in broken skin 

Fly sheets are lightweight mesh blankets designed to keep bugs off your horse. They come with or without a hood, and you can pair them with a fly mask and/or fly boots for nose-to-tail coverage. 

Fly sheets create a physical barrier between insects and your horse’s skin.  

Sheets with zebra stripes or camouflage prints can add extra protection by confusing insects and making it harder for them to land.  

Managing flies can feel like a full-time job. Fly sheets can reduce the hassle by offering continuous coverage during turnout, which: 

• Saves time with less frequent reapplication 
• Reduces exposure to repellents 
• Keeps horses with sensitive skin more comfortable 
• Some even offer UV protection 

Fly sheets work well but can have drawbacks. The downsides are often related to poor fit or improper use. In these cases, they can: 

• Trap heat in hot climates if the sheet is not breathable 
• Cause rubs or bald spots when poorly fitted 
• ​​​​​Come with safety risks when improperly fitted (i.e. getting tangled) 
• Build up static, especially in dry conditions 
• Need frequent replacement for growing horses or those tough on gear 
• Can’t be worn when the horse is being ridden 

Fly sheets also require regular cleaning and maintenance. But if you’re attentive and match the sheet to the horse and environment, most of these downsides are manageable. 

Fly spray is a liquid insect repellent applied directly to your horse’s coat. You can spray it on, rub it on with a cloth, or apply it as a lotion. 

Fly sprays use ingredients that repel or kill insects. Chemical fly sprays are usually made with pyrethrins or pyrethroids, while natural fly sprays use essential oils that repel insects.  

You can apply both chemical and natural repellents by spraying or wiping on.  

Fly sprays are a popular choice because they are easy to use and they: 

• Allow for targeted use on specific areas 
• Are budget-friendly 
• Work well for short-term protection during rides and turnout 
• Reduce the risk of overheating 
• Avoid the rubbing and hair loss issues that sheets can cause 

Fly sprays are most effective when applied according to the label. Inconsistent application can reduce their effectiveness. Other drawbacks include: 

• Frequent reapplication 
• Time-intensive to apply in large herds 
• May wear off with sweat or rain 
• Skin sensitivities in some horses 
• Chemical exposure when using non-natural formulations 

When you’re deciding between fly sheets and fly sprays, it’s less about which is “better” and more about how you manage your horse. Each option solves a different problem. 

A fly sheet provides coverage that lasts as long as it is on your horse, whereas fly spray only offers coverage until it wears off. Sweat, sun, and even a roll in the dirt can reduce a fly spray’s effectiveness.  

If you’re looking for all-day (or night) coverage, fly sheets have an advantage. However, even though fly sprays require reapplication, they do offer flexibility and can cover any gaps left by fly sheets. 

Fly sheets create a physical barrier over most of your horse’s body, especially if you’re using one with a neck cover and belly band, but they don’t cover everything. In general, they provide broad, reliable coverage. 

Fly spray protects targeted areas that are easy to miss or hard to cover: the legs, under the belly, around the face, and the ears. But effectiveness depends on how well and how frequently you apply it. 

The best fly prevention methods are those that fit into your daily routine, increasing the likelihood of using them correctly. Fly sheets and sprays are convenient to use, but for different reasons. 

• Fly sheets: Once they are properly fitted, they require minimal daily effort. 
• Fly spray: Application is quick and easy, but must be applied regularly. 

Fly sheets are an investment, especially if you’re buying a high-quality one. But they can last a full season or longer with regular maintenance and cleaning.  

Fly spray is cheaper to purchase per unit, but it’s an ongoing expense. Chances are you’ll need several bottles per season, especially with multiple horses. 

Many horse owners end up using both fly sheets and sprays as part of their horse summer care plan. Used together, they can provide maximum protection.  

Fly sheets offer a physical barrier that deters insects, while fly sprays and wipes can protect horses from flies in areas that sheets leave exposed. Having both in your bug-battling arsenal provides flexibility based on changing environmental conditions or the horse’s needs. 

There is no single right choice when it comes to fly control. Both fly sheets and fly sprays are effective tools, and the best option depends on the individual horse’s needs and the environment. In most cases, a combination of both works best for keeping horses comfortable and healthy during fly season.