Mud Fever
Mud fever (sometimes known as mud rash or pastern dermatitis) commonly forms on the pastern (between the fetlock and the hoof and on the heel), but can travel up the leg in severe cases. In the autumn, the wet weather can cause skin conditions in various areas. Mud fever is common due to equines standing in wet muddy conditions.
It is a non-contagious skin condition that is caused by bacteria, the skin is softened on the lower legs by the wet weather and then mud rubs into the softened skin allowing the bacteria to enter. Equines with feathers have an increased risk of mud fever due to them quite often having leg mites which can cause itching to the skin, therefore causing an entry point for the bacteria.
Signs of mud fever
- Scabs that appear crusty on the heels or lower legs
- Any broken or damaged skin
- Heat, pain, or swelling of the lower legs
- Hair that is matted or patches of hair loss
- A discharge under the scabs
- Lameness caused by the above.
Care must be taken that infections do not develop under the scabs; the horse will be sore to touch making treatment more difficult. Therefore, catching it early is beneficial for the horse and owner.
Rain scald is another skin infection with a similar bacterial cause triggered by wet conditions, but this is found on the horses back and hind quarters.
Treatment
We advise to contact your vet for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. You may be able to complete the treatment yourself, but if it is not improving, we advise that you contact your vet again.
- If possible, remove your horse from the muddy environment.
- Keep their skin as mud-free and dry as possible.
- If your horse has feathers, you may be advised to clip off the hair to enable you to wash and treat the mud fever easier.
- Use a mild diluted disinfectant, like Hibiscrub, to clean the scabbed areas. Follow the instructions carefully.
- Pat dry the area, be careful not to rub as they may be sore and react to this rubbing.
- Any loose scabs can be removed, but be cautious
- Anti-bacterial cream may be prescribed by your vet, and a barrier cream for when exercised.
- If the mud fever has occurred due to mites, further specific treatment may be required.
Preventing Mud Fever
As the wet weather approaches, there are ways to try to avoid mud fever occurring. Below are some of the prevention methods.
- Check legs daily, especially in wet weather and muddy conditions.
- Try not to overwash legs, this can remove the natural oils and grease in the skin, also causing the skin to soften and chap.
- Dry legs thoroughly if they have been washed.
- We advise keeping all bedding as clean as possible, mucking out every day, and not deep littering.
- When turned out, use mud mats or hardcore in gateways or known muddy areas to avoid standing in wet or muddy conditions.
- Consider rotation of grazing, ensuring that there is a dry area to move to in wet weather.
- Provide shelter, or an area where the horse can stand in dry conditions.
- Treat any underlying issues, like mites or wounds that have broken the skin.
- Consider allowing mud to dry on the legs and brush off when dry.
- We advise not to wash too often, but when you do, towel dry thoroughly.
- Barrier creams can be applied before turning out to create a protective layer, but the leg must be clean and dry before applying otherwise it creates an environment for bacteria to thrive.
- Turnout boots can be used, but ensure that they are well fitted to prevent any rubs or sores.
- Keep the legs clipped to provide a dry environment that is easier to monitor and treat, especially if prone to mud fever.
Remember we are here at Bransby Horses to support you with the health and welfare of your horse, if you require further information on any of the above or you would like to discuss your management plan please call 01427 787369 or email welfare@bransbyhorses.co.uk.