Presenting Signs
- Localised/ generalised hair loss or crusting of the skin
- May be itchy
- Lesions can be mildly painful
- Often follow period of wet weather, where horse may be standing in water or mud for prolonged periods
- Distribution/ location of lesions are often in areas subject to wet conditions: either rain, mud or sweat. (Can also be on head/ neck/ abdomen/ lower legs/ under tack)
- Rainscald: dorsal back
- Mud fever: distal limbs, particularly pastern area. White skin tends to be more commonly affected
Pathogenesis
- Caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis that lives in the environment. Requires abrasion to the skin and a moist environment to cause infection.
- Predisposing factors: muddy fields, sweating, pink skin, trauma to skin
Diagnosis
- A combination of client history, clinical signs, and sometimes diagnostic investigation if needed
- Clinical signs: matted hair, scabs, underlying yellow discharge, crusts may be dry in chronic or healing lesions
- In severe cases skin may crack, ooze and swell
- Confirmation of diagnosis: clinical signs, identification of organism with histopathology or cytology
Treatment
Clean and dry affected areas
- Heavily diluted hibiscrub or iodine solution
- Soak scabs gently to allow easy removal
- Avoid bandaging as creates a moist environment
- Dry well and keep clean
Stabling
- Allows dry environment, protects from rain and mud
- Protects from flies/ other biting insects which may cause skin abrasions
- Keep bedding dry and clean
Topical treatments for localised areas
- Crusts must be softened and gently lifted away to allow topical treatment to be applied directly onto the skin
- Daily for 5-7 days then weekly until resolved
- Seek appropriate medicated cream from your vets
Topical treatments for larger areas
- Antibacterial shampoos and medicated creams from your vet work well
- Drying skin well is very important
- Avoid over treatment that could lead to further skin damage
Prevention
- Prevent excessive contact with rain/ mud and wet grass
- Ensure bedding is clean and dry
- Use individual rugs/ tack/ grooming kit to prevent cross contamination between horses
- Regularly check legs thoroughly, especially in feathered horses where skin lesions may be hidden
- Wash off/ groom well after exercise, to ensure no sweat is left in contact with the skin
- Put food and water on hard standing to minimise time spent standing in mud
- Keep feathers clipped
For more advice or if concerned, contact the team on 01323 815120.