Unfortunately, the weather here on the Isle of Man means that mud fever is a condition many local horse owners will have to tackle this winter. That’s why we thought we would pull together our team’s top tips on mud fever, including how to manage it and how to help prevent it.
If you’re concerned about your own horse becoming affected by mud fever, contact the team and book an appointment with one of our vets.
What is mud fever?
Mud fever is a skin condition that typically affects the lower limbs. This usually occurs following exposure to muddy and wet ground conditions. It is non-contagious, can occur all year round and can be extremely frustrating to manage, especially during the winter months.
Known by our vets as Pastern Dermatitis, the bacteria causing the condition will enter via breaches in your horse’s skin, causing the infection to establish. The same bacteria are also to blame for the commonly known ‘rain scald’, usually found on the rump, back or flank areas.
Symptoms of mud fever
Common symptoms of mud fever to look out for:
• Scabs on the pastern, between the hoof and fetlock.
• Areas of hair loss or matted hair around the pastern.
• Discharge oozing from these areas.
• Severe cases may develop both heat and swelling of the lower limb.
How owners can help prevent mud fever
As well as daily inspections of your horse’s legs, we recommend reducing the amount of time your horse will spend standing on wet or muddy ground. If you have the option of stabling your horse, then the use of a barrier cream for turnout could help to stop the mud from sticking to their legs. However, we are well aware that stabling isn’t always an option for horses on the Isle of Man and these creams would not be effective if your horse was constantly turned out.
Our vets also say not to wash your horse’s legs too often. If you do need to wash them, then ensure you dry them afterwards. Also consider investing in some overreach boots for riding and turnout – these can help reduce the risk of pastern injuries.
How do we treat mud fever?
Along with simple management changes, such as stabling your horse, we also recommend cleaning the area daily and clipping off feathers. For more established cases, we may choose to prescribe certain products including shampoos, steroid creams, pain-relief, anti-inflammatories and potentially antibiotics for the more severe cases.
Contact the team at Strand Vets Equine for tailored advice on tackling mud fever this winter.
