Dust mites in horse feed have become a growing concern, especially with the recent weather conditions in South Africa. These tiny pests thrive in warm, humid environments and can infest horse feed, leading to contamination and potential health risks for your horse. In this article, we’ll explore how to identify dust mites, prevent infestations, and take effective action if they invade your feed storage.
What Are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are microscopic, grey-brown insects that feed on organic matter, including dust and fine feed particles. Due to their tiny size, they are often mistaken for dust, but a closer look reveals a moving, almost “breathing” layer of mites inside and around affected feed bags. They are closely related to grain mites or flour mites, which also thrive in environments such as pet food, rice, flour, and cereals when conditions are warm and humid.
These mites can also hatch in dusty, uneven surfaces like cracks in floors and walls or behind feed bins, especially when the environment becomes favourable in the summer months.
Signs of a Dust Mite Infestation
- A fine, moving layer of “dust” on the exterior of feed bags.
- A thick coating of dust-like particles inside the feed bag.
- Clumped or spoiled feed due to excess moisture.
- Increased respiratory issues in horses consuming the feed.
How to Prevent Dust Mites in Horse Feed
- Store Feed in a Cool, Dry Place – Keep feed bags off the ground and away from direct sunlight to reduce heat and humidity buildup.
- Use Airtight Containers – Sealing feed in airtight bins prevents mites from entering and reproducing.
- Rotate Stock Regularly – Follow a first-in, first-out approach to ensure older feed is used before new stock.
- Inspect Feed Before Use – Check for unusual dust, movement, or clumping before feeding your horse.
- Control Humidity – Use dehumidifiers or proper ventilation to reduce moisture in storage areas.
- Deep Clean Storage Spaces Regularly – Regular cleaning is vital, especially during summer. Sweep and disinfect behind and underneath bins, and ensure cracks and corners are kept dust-free.
What to Do if You Have an Infestation
- Remove Affected Feed Immediately – Dispose of contaminated feed far from storage areas.
- Thoroughly Clean Storage Areas – Use warm, soapy water to wipe down drums and surfaces. Make sure bins are fully dry before refilling them.
- Freeze Small Quantities – For light infestations, freezing feed for a few days can be effective. Ensure the feed is sealed tightly to prevent moisture, which can cause mould once it thaws.
- Use Pyrethrin-Based Treatments Cautiously – In severe cases, fogging or spraying with pyrethrin can help. However, many commonly available fumigation products can alter the smell or taste of the feed, causing animals to reject it. Not all treatments are safe for use near animal or human food, so choose products carefully.
- Consider Natural Additives – Some horse owners mix Voerdokter (diatomaceous earth) into feed to disrupt the mite life cycle and reduce spread. This should only be done with feed that’s still fresh and uncontaminated, not with feed that has been infested for months.
How Royal Feeds SA Ensures Quality
At Royal Feeds SA, we prioritise the quality and safety of our feed. Our packaging and storage processes are designed to minimise the risk of mite infestations. By choosing our premium, quality-controlled feed and applying good storage hygiene, you can protect your horse’s health and nutrition.
Dust mites in horse feed can be a serious issue, but they’re manageable with consistent care. Keep storage areas clean, feed containers sealed, and feed turnover high. And when in doubt, contact Royal Feeds SA for expert nutritional guidance and support.
