Why is the skin on my horse’s pasterns swollen and scabby?
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Overview
Swollen and scabby skin on the pasterns is often linked to irritation, damp conditions or skin inflammation. In horses, this can sometimes fit with mallenders or sallenders, but there can be other causes too, so it’s worth checking the area carefully rather than assuming it’s one thing.
What you’re looking for is how widespread it is, whether the skin is sore or hot, and whether there are any signs of rubbing, mud exposure or infection.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the scabs are on the back of the front legs, the back of the hind legs, or both.
2. Look for redness, heat, swelling, broken skin, discharge or a bad smell.
3. Notice if the horse is stamping, biting, rubbing or reacting when you touch the area.
4. Think about recent turnout, muddy fields, wet bedding, clipping, grooming or tack contact.
5. Check whether the skin is dry and flaky, greasy and crusted, or damp and weepy.
6. Look at whether the horse has similar scabs elsewhere on the legs or body.
7. Keep an eye on whether the swelling is mild and localised or spreading up the leg.
Common Causes
The most common causes are skin irritation from damp, mud and repeated wetting, along with skin thickening and scabbing associated with mallenders or sallenders.
Some horses develop secondary bacterial skin infection when the skin barrier is damaged, especially if the area stays dirty or moist.
Less commonly, rubbing, flies, mites or contact irritation from products or turnout conditions may play a part.
What To Do
Start by keeping the area clean and as dry as practical. If the skin is caked with mud or debris, soften it gently and avoid scrubbing hard, which can make the skin angrier.
Reduce anything that seems to make it worse, such as prolonged wet turnout, muddy fields or repeated washing without drying properly.
Use a calm, steady routine and watch whether the area improves, stays the same or gets more inflamed over the next few days.
If the horse is comfortable, continue to monitor the skin closely and note any changes in the size of the swelling, number of scabs or level of soreness.
Products That May Help
A gentle wash and coat-care routine may be useful if the skin is getting dirty or greasy, as this can help support day-to-day cleaning without being too harsh on sensitive areas.
Related Questions
Is mallenders the same as mud fever?
Can I wash scabs off my horse’s pasterns?
Why do my horse’s pasterns get worse after wet turnout?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.