What should I check if my horse has scabs, hair loss, and a bad smell?
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If your horse has scabs, hair loss and a bad smell, it’s worth checking the skin carefully for signs of rain scald or another skin irritation. These signs can happen when the coat stays damp, dirty or rubbed, but they can also overlap with other skin problems, so you can’t tell the cause just from the appearance alone.
Start by looking at where the patches are, how the skin feels, and whether the horse seems sore or itchy. That usually gives the best clue about what’s going on and what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the problem is on the back, rump, neck, shoulders or another area that gets wet or rubbed most often.
2. Look closely for scabs, clumped hair, bald patches, red skin, discharge or a damp, musty smell.
3. Feel the area gently for heat, tenderness or thickened skin.
4. Think about recent weather, turnout, rug use and whether the coat has stayed wet for long periods.
5. Check whether the horse has been sweating, groomed heavily, or left in dirty bedding or mud.
6. Notice whether the horse is rubbing, stamping, flinching, or seeming uncomfortable when the area is touched.
7. Look for any spread of patches, or whether the skin problem is staying in one place.
8. Check other horses or shared kit in case there’s a hygiene issue in the stable or turnout routine.
Common Causes
Rain scald is a common cause, especially if the horse has been wet for long periods and the coat has stayed damp. It often shows as scabs with hair coming away in patches, and the skin may have a noticeable smell.
Other common causes include skin irritation from mud, sweat or friction from rugs and tack, and minor bacterial or fungal skin problems. Less commonly, parasites or a more widespread skin condition may be involved.
What To Do
Keep the area as clean and dry as you can without over-washing. If the coat is wet, dry it carefully and avoid leaving the horse standing in damp rugs or dirty bedding.
Use gentle grooming and avoid picking at the scabs, as that can make the skin more sore. If the horse is turned out in wet conditions, try to reduce how long the skin stays damp and check rugs for rubbing or trapped moisture.
It can help to make a note of where the patches are, what they look like and whether they improve or spread over a few days. If the smell gets stronger, the skin looks more painful, or the problem keeps returning, a vet can help identify the cause.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the area is spreading quickly, looks very sore, is oozing, or your horse seems unwell or painful. It’s also sensible to ask for advice if the patches keep coming back, you’re unsure whether it’s rain scald, or home care isn’t improving things within a few days.
Products That May Help
Gentle washing and coat care can be useful as part of a routine to keep the skin clean and comfortable while you monitor the problem.
Related Questions
Is rain scald contagious between horses?
Should I clip or wash a horse with scabs and hair loss?
How can I stop damp rugs and muddy turnout making skin worse?
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.