Caring for Skin in Wet & Muddy Conditions

As our winters continue to be wet with high levels of rain fall leaving many areas flooded and waterlogged, we are seeing more breakouts of skin issues caused by these wet conditions, such as Mud Fever and Rain Scald.

Mud Fever, also known as pastern dermatitis, is a common condition caused typically in wet, damp, and muddy conditions often by the bacterium Dermatophilus Congolensis. Although this bacterium is a normal inhabitant of the skin, in moist conditions with constant damage to the skin, infection occurs. This is seen as crusts and scabs, with clumps of hair coming away when the scabs are removed. Often the skin is inflamed, with some scabs oozing and in the cases of Mud Fever, swelling of the pastern and acute lameness is seen. 

Caring for our equines skin during the wet winter months can help reduce the risk of mud fever and rain scald. Reducing exposure to wet muddy conditions and keeping pasterns, particularly in horses with white legs and feathers, clean and dry will prevent infection. 

Supplements and creams can often help reducing symptoms of Mud Fever and Rain Scald. By supporting the skin, improving the skin's barrier, and boosting the immune system we can prevent severe flare ups during our wet winters. 

Mud-X and Mud-X Cream both contain soothing properties to maintain the correct bacterial balance of the skin, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system. Its unique blend of herbs such as Turmeric - a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant which helps sooth inflamed skin, Cedar - a natural insecticide, bactericide, and anti-inflammatory aiming to reduce flaky, dry, irritated skin and Fennel which soothes the digestive tract and skin, being full of vit A, C, and E which protects skin cells, supports skin health, and also soothes irritated areas.  

Both our Mud-X herbal blends can be used together, with Mud-X cream being used on any troublesome spots once in from the field, clean and dry. Together these can help to keep your horse safe and sound throughout even the worst wet winters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mud fever in horses?
Mud fever, also known as pastern dermatitis, is a common skin condition associated with wet, muddy conditions. It can cause scabs, crusting, hair loss and irritated or inflamed skin, particularly around the pasterns and lower legs.

What causes mud fever in horses?
Mud fever is often associated with prolonged exposure to wet, muddy conditions. The skin can become softened and damaged, allowing bacteria such as Dermatophilus congolensis, which can normally live on the skin, to cause infection.

How can I prevent mud fever in my horse?
Reducing prolonged exposure to wet and muddy conditions, where possible, can help. Regularly checking the legs, keeping affected areas clean and dry and maintaining good general skin health are also important. Horses with white legs or feathers may need particular attention during wet weather.

What are the signs of mud fever?
Signs can include scabs, crusts, hair loss, redness and irritated or inflamed skin around the lower legs. In more severe cases, swelling and lameness may occur.

What is rain scald in horses?
Rain scald is a bacterial skin condition associated with prolonged wet conditions. It can cause small crusts or scabs and clumps of hair to come away with the crusts, particularly across areas of the body exposed to persistent rain.

How can I care for my horse's skin in wet weather?
Check your horse's skin regularly, particularly the legs and areas exposed to constant moisture. Try to keep vulnerable areas as clean and dry as possible, provide appropriate shelter from persistent rain and maintain a balanced diet to support healthy skin from within.

Can nutrition support healthy skin in horses?
Yes. A balanced diet provides the nutrients needed for normal skin maintenance and healthy skin function. Targeted nutritional support can also be incorporated into the diet where appropriate.

What is Mud-X used for in horses?
Mud-X is a herbal nutritional supplement designed to provide nutritional support for healthy skin and the body's natural defences during challenging wet and muddy conditions. The formula contains herbs including Turmeric, Cedar and Fennel.

What is Mud-X Cream used for?
Mud-X Cream is a topical product designed to provide soothing care for areas of skin affected by wet and muddy conditions. It can be applied to troublesome areas once they have been cleaned and dried.

When should I contact my vet about mud fever?
Veterinary advice should be sought if skin problems are severe, persistent or worsening, or if your horse develops significant swelling, pain, discharge or lameness. These signs may indicate a more serious infection requiring veterinary treatment.

Written by Jo Holt MRCVS