Farnam SWAT Ointment Review: Ultimate Fly Protection?

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Key Takeaways: Farnam SWAT Fly Repellent Ointment Review

• Dual-Action Formula: Not only repels but also kills house flies, stable flies, face flies, and horn flies on contact for complete protection.
• Safe for Sensitive Application: Gentle enough for use around the eyes and on small wounds or abrasions, reducing the risk of irritation or infection.
• Exceptional Staying Power: Weather-resistant ointment sticks to the coat and skin, even through sweat and light moisture, for hours of reliable coverage.
• Versatile for Multiple Pets: Suitable for both horses and dogs, making it a cost-effective fly protection solution for multi-pet households.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Unending Battle Against Flies
• Our Verdict: Is Farnam SWAT a Must-Have?
• Key Features & In-Depth Benefits
• What We Liked
• Potential Drawbacks
• Who Is This Fly Ointment For?
• Comparison to Alternative Fly Control Methods
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion: Your Go-To Fly Protection

Introduction: The Unending Battle Against Flies

If you’ve ever owned a horse, you know that summer comes with its own soundtrack: buzzing flies, stomping hooves, and endless tail swishing. Flies aren’t just annoying; they’re also a health risk, capable of spreading infections, triggering allergic reactions, and causing open sores. Protecting your horse from these relentless pests is more than a convenience—it’s essential care.

While fly sprays, masks, and feed-through supplements help, they each come with drawbacks. Sprays fade quickly with sweat, masks don’t cover everything, and some horses just won’t tolerate them. This is where a targeted product like Farnam SWAT Fly Repellent Ointment earns its reputation. Known for its thick, pink or clear formula, SWAT is designed to stay in place and protect the most vulnerable areas on your horse. In this review, we’ll cover whether SWAT truly lives up to its long-standing reputation as a fly-control staple.

Our Verdict: Is Farnam SWAT a Must-Have?

After years of consistent use, our answer is yes: Farnam SWAT Fly Repellent Ointment is a must-have for fly season. Its standout feature is its durability—it doesn’t just sit on the surface; it clings through sweat and light rain. For sensitive spots like the face, ears, or small cuts, it provides the type of protection sprays simply can’t match. While it’s a little greasy and can attract dirt, this is a small trade-off for the hours of relief it provides. For us, SWAT isn’t just another product—it’s a reliable, go-to essential for horses and dogs alike.

Key Features & In-Depth Benefits

Effective Against a Wide Range of Flies

From house flies to stable flies and face flies, SWAT covers the bases. Each of these pests brings unique problems—from painful bites to spreading eye infections like pinkeye. By tackling them all, SWAT helps reduce stress and keeps your horse more comfortable.

Safe for Wounds and Sensitive Skin

Unlike most sprays that warn against contact with broken skin, SWAT is safe for minor cuts, scrapes, and abrasions. This makes it not only a fly repellent but also a helpful addition to any equine first-aid kit, as it prevents flies from turning small injuries into bigger problems.

Weather-Resistant, Long-Lasting Formula

The ointment’s thick consistency is its secret weapon. Unlike sprays that evaporate or run off with sweat, SWAT stays put. Whether your horse is turned out on a hot day or exercising in humid conditions, SWAT remains effective for hours.

Pink or Clear Formula Options

The pink version lets you see exactly where you’ve applied the ointment, making it easy to know when it’s time to reapply. The clear version offers the same protection but without the cosmetic look—perfect for show horses.

What We Liked

• Precise, no-waste application directly to problem areas.
• A less stressful option for horses that dislike spray bottles.
• Immediate visible results—flies land and instantly leave.
• Trusted by thousands of horse owners with outstanding reviews.

Potential Drawbacks

• The greasy texture can attract dirt and dust if applied too thickly.
• Not intended for full-body use—it’s a spot treatment only.
• The pink ointment may temporarily stain lighter coats or tack.

Who Is This Fly Ointment For?

SWAT is ideal for:

• Pasture-kept horses who need long-lasting protection.
• Horses prone to summer sores or skin irritations.
• Head-shy horses that resist traditional sprays.
• Horse owners needing wound-safe fly protection.
• Barns wanting a reliable first-aid and fly control solution.

Comparison to Alternative Fly Control Methods

Versus sprays: Sprays are better for quick, full-body coverage but don’t last long. SWAT shines in spot treatment with hours of staying power.

Versus fly masks: Masks protect the eyes but can’t cover the muzzle or ears. SWAT works hand-in-hand to protect those exposed areas.

Versus feed-through fly control: Feed-through products reduce overall populations over time, while SWAT delivers instant, targeted relief. Used together, they provide the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I apply it?

Daily application is recommended, though frequency may vary based on fly activity, humidity, or your horse’s workload. During peak fly season, twice-daily use may be ideal.

Can I use it around the eyes?

Yes. Apply carefully around the orbital bone with your fingertip, avoiding direct contact with the eyes. Its thick formula stays in place without running.

Does it melt in hot weather?

No. While it may soften slightly, the formula is stable and designed to resist melting or dripping even in high heat.

Can it be used on other animals?

It’s labeled safe only for horses and dogs. Always follow the instructions and consult a vet before off-label use.

Conclusion: Your Go-To Fly Protection

Flies are inevitable, but suffering doesn’t have to be. Farnam SWAT Fly Repellent Ointment is a proven solution for protecting your horse’s most vulnerable areas. Its dual-action protection, wound-safe formula, and lasting power make it an essential part of any grooming kit. While it won’t replace sprays or masks, it fills the gap they leave, giving your horse targeted, reliable relief where it’s needed most.

Trusted by countless horse owners and backed by thousands of positive reviews, Farnam SWAT is more than a repellent—it’s peace of mind for you and comfort for your horse.