Why does my horse have wet, inflamed skin around the pasterns?
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Overview
Wet, inflamed skin around the pasterns is often linked to greasy heel, especially if your horse has been standing in mud, wet bedding, or damp turnout for long periods. It can also be caused by irritation, rubbing, or a skin infection, so it’s worth checking the area closely rather than assuming it’s just dirt.
Things To Check
1. See whether the skin is wet, greasy, crusty, scabby, sore, or starting to lose hair.
2. Check if the problem is in one leg or both, and whether it’s worse after turnout or exercise.
3. Feel for heat, swelling, or tenderness around the pastern and lower leg.
4. Look for cracks, broken skin, discharge, or a smell that suggests the area is staying too damp.
5. Consider whether the horse has been in mud, wet straw, dirty bedding, or standing water recently.
6. Check for anything that could be rubbing, such as brushing boots, bandages, or tack-related friction.
7. Notice whether the horse is stamping, lifting the leg, or seeming bothered when you touch the area.
Common Causes
The most common cause is greasy heel, which is usually linked to moisture, mud, and skin irritation in the lower legs. This often starts with damp, greasy skin and can become more inflamed if the area stays wet.
Rubbing from boots, bandages, or repeated washing can also irritate the skin and make it look red and weepy.
Less commonly, a bacterial or fungal skin issue may be involved, especially if there are scabs, cracking, or the skin doesn’t settle with simple management.
What To Do
Keep the area as clean and dry as you reasonably can. Gentle washing may help if the skin is dirty, but avoid over-washing, harsh scrubbing, or leaving the legs damp afterwards.
Improve the horse’s environment where possible by reducing exposure to mud, wet bedding, and dirty standing areas. Dry, clean turnout and stable conditions can make a real difference.
Check the legs daily so you can spot changes early. If the skin is worsening, the horse seems uncomfortable, or it isn’t improving with sensible hygiene and drying measures, a vet check is a good idea.
Products That May Help
Good leg and mud-care routines can be useful when you’re trying to keep lower legs cleaner and easier to manage day to day.
Related Questions
What is greasy heel in horses?
How do I clean muddy pasterns without making them worse?
When should I ask a vet about scabs or crusting on my horse’s legs?
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.