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Damalinia equi feeds on the most superficial layers of the skin and the exudate which results from the irritant effect of the parasite.
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Damalinia species infest cattle, shep, goats and horses. Usually they cause little harm and only occur in small numbers but if large infestations develop damage may occur through heavy grooming by the host. The lateral distribution of lice over the body is influenced principally by the type of hair and skin temperature. If the hair is too wide to be held by the females no eggs are laid, and thus the eggs of Damalinia are found only on the thin hairs of the body.