Mud fever in horses, also known as dermatophilosis, is inflammation of the superficial skin layers that can occur at any age. It is a bacterial infection caused by actinomycete bacteria. It affects, among other structures, the skin's sebaceous glands. Mud fever is more than a cosmetic problem: over time it can cause considerable discomfort during movement.
How do you recognise mud fever? What causes it, how is it treated and how can you prevent it? You will find the answers below.
How can you recognise mud fever in your horse?
Mud fever is an acute skin condition characterised by eczematous inflammation that quickly becomes chronic. Lesions most often appear at the back of the pastern, mainly on the hindlimbs. Prolonged disease causes excessive growth of subcutaneous tissue in this area, potentially leading to difficulty moving.
Mud fever causes hard, nodular or rounded growths and skin lesions, often alongside other, more serious conditions. Injury, infection, allergies, parasites or even tumours can weaken the horse's body, making it more susceptible to infection.
Mud fever lesions vary in size and shape, from dry scabs to fluid-filled blisters. In some cases, they may also cause behavioural changes, such as loss of appetite, lethargy or a raised temperature. Correct diagnosis and treatment are crucial because untreated infections can lead to serious complications.
What causes mud fever in horses?
Mud fever can develop through a combination of factors. During autumn and winter, horses are more vulnerable to infection and illness because of reduced exercise or weakened immunity. Poor hygiene, such as dirty stables or contaminated pasture, also creates ideal conditions for pathogens. A weakened body, caused by an inadequate diet or excessive training, for example, leaves the immune system less effective at fighting infection. Maintaining a hygienic environment and providing suitable care and diet are therefore key to minimising mud fever risk.Diagnosing mud fever in horses
If you suspect mud fever, consult your vet. They will diagnose the condition and assess its severity. A culture of infected tissue is also often taken to identify the organisms responsible. Once results are available, medication can be selected precisely.
How do you treat mud fever in horses?
Treating mud fever is time-consuming and requires patience. In mild cases, you can try commercially available mud fever ointments or mud fever prevention ointments. You can also try washing the skin with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. However, in advanced cases, always consult your vet, who can prescribe appropriate medicines or recommend other treatments.
For advanced mud fever, your vet may recommend more intensive treatment, such as surgical drainage, removing the lesion's contents with a needle or drain. Antibiotics may also be necessary to fight infection. Some lesions are more resistant and require repeated procedures or long-term therapy. Horses may also need special skin care or dressings to ensure proper wound healing. Treating mud fever yourself can be dangerous and ineffective, so always consult your vet. Be consistent and monitor treatment progress regularly to ensure mud fever heals completely and causes no discomfort.
How can you prevent mud fever in your horse?
Keeping bedding clean and dry is essential to prevent mud fever. Damp, dirty bedding encourages bacteria and fungi, which transfer to the horse's legs in the stable and infect the skin.
Regularly removing soiled material from the stable is crucial for effective prevention and treatment. Remember: a contaminated environment combined with tiny injuries to the skin of the legs is a ready-made recipe for mud fever!
Regular washing and cleaning of your horse's skin are also essential to remove dirt and prevent pathogens accumulating. Provide a well-balanced diet to avoid excess starch, which can indirectly contribute to mud fever. Finally, ensure enough exercise and minimise stress to maintain the best possible general health.
