Do I need the powder or the paste? 

Which Formula Is Right for Your Horse?

As a general guide, our Rain Rot Powder is ideal for skin that is itchy, irritated, moist, red, flaky, or has an unpleasant odor. It's designed to help support troubled skin and promote a healthier environment for healing.

Our Sweet Itch Paste is best suited for open or compromised skin, including wounds, sores, areas that are oozing, and insect bites. It's also an excellent choice for hot spots on horses.

Sweet Itch vs. Bug Bites: Which Formula Should You Use?

While both Sweet Itch and insect bites are caused by biting insects, they require slightly different approaches depending on the condition of your horse's skin.

For Sweet Itch (Queensland Itch / Summer Itch):
Sweet Itch is an allergic reaction to the saliva of biting midges, often causing intense itching, hair loss, rubbing, flaky skin, and inflamed patches along the mane, tail, and belly. For most cases of Sweet Itch, we recommend starting with the Rain Rot Powder. It helps keep irritated skin dry, supports the skin's natural healing process, and provides relief for itchy, inflamed areas.

If the skin has progressed to open sores, raw patches, or areas that are oozing from excessive rubbing, begin with the Sweet Itch Paste to protect and support compromised skin. Once the area has begun to dry and heal, many customers transition back to the Rain Rot Powder for ongoing management.

For Bug Bites:
Minor insect bites that cause localized irritation, swelling, or redness typically respond best to the Bug Bite Paste. Its rich, protective consistency helps soothe irritated skin while creating a barrier over the affected area, making it ideal for individual bites and small irritated spots.

How Often Should I Apply the Powder?

For active skin concerns, first wash with a mild shampoo or antifungal and then once it is dry, apply the powder generously so it reaches the skin beneath the hair or coat, ensuring the affected area remains consistently covered. Reapply as needed throughout the day as the powder naturally wears away. Continued coverage is important to help maintain a clean, dry environment while the skin recovers.

We recommend using the powder consistently for at least three days, or until the affected area has visibly improved.

Once the skin has recovered, the powder can be used as part of your regular grooming routine to help maintain healthy skin—especially in areas prone to moisture or irritation. Many of our customers apply it as a final step after bathing or during their horse's daily care to help keep the skin clean, dry, and comfortable.

How to Apply the Hoof Paste

Begin by removing loose dirt, mud, and debris from the hoof. For best adhesion, the hoof should be as dry as possible before application.

Using a clean brush, hoof pick, or gloved hand, apply the hoof spray and then  a generous layer of Hoof Paste directly to the affected areas, paying particular attention to the frog, sole, white line, hoof cracks, or any areas where longer-lasting coverage is desired. Press the paste into crevices and deeper grooves to help it remain in place.

Reapply once or twice daily, or as needed, especially after cleaning the hoof or prolonged exposure to wet conditions. Continue use until the hoof has returned to a healthy condition, then use periodically as part of your preventative hoof care routine.

Pro Tip: Many horse owners use the Hoof Spray for quick, everyday maintenance and the Hoof Paste when extended contact and extra protection are needed. Together, they provide a complete hoof care system for daily maintenance and targeted support.