What should I do if my horse has painful scabs on the lower legs?
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Overview
Painful scabs on the lower legs are often linked with mallenders or sallenders, but there can be several possible causes. The best first step is to check the skin carefully, keep the area clean and dry, and avoid picking at the scabs unless your vet has advised it.
Things To Check
1. Check exactly where the scabs are. Mallenders usually affects the back of the knees, while sallenders is more often seen at the back of the hocks.
2. Look for redness, heat, swelling, discharge, cracked skin or signs that the area is sore to touch.
3. Notice whether the horse is bothered by it, such as lifting the leg, stamping, licking, biting or resisting handling.
4. Think about whether the problem gets worse after muddy turnout, wet bedding, clipping, grooming or leg washing.
5. Check whether the horse has feathering, greasy skin, dandruff-like scale or thickened skin around the area.
6. Look at whether one leg or both legs are affected, and whether the scabs are spreading or staying in one place.
7. Make a note of any recent changes in feed, turnout, rugging, bedding or stable routine.
Common Causes
Mallenders and sallenders are common causes of scabs and thickened skin in these areas, often linked with irritation and ongoing skin inflammation.
Dirty, wet or muddy conditions can make the skin harder to keep comfortable, especially if the hair is feathered or the legs stay damp for long periods.
Some horses develop skin sensitivity, rubbing or mild dermatitis that can look similar at first. Less commonly, mites, bacterial skin infection or other skin problems may be involved.
What To Do
Start by keeping the area as clean and dry as you reasonably can. Gentle grooming can help remove loose dirt, but avoid scrubbing or forcing scabs off.
If the skin is dirty, use a mild wash routine and dry the legs carefully afterwards. Good stable hygiene and drier turnout conditions may also help reduce ongoing irritation.
Monitor the area over a few days and note any changes in size, soreness, heat or discharge. If the problem keeps returning, the skin looks very sore, or the horse seems uncomfortable, veterinary advice is sensible.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the scabs are painful, the skin is swollen or hot, there is discharge, the horse is lame, or the problem is spreading. You should also get advice if it keeps coming back or does not improve with sensible routine care.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s lower legs are prone to getting dirty or greasy, a gentle wash routine can be useful as part of day-to-day skin care. This collection may help support regular grooming and cleaning without being harsh on sensitive skin.
Related Questions
What is the difference between mallenders and sallenders?
Should I pick scabs off my horse’s legs?
Can muddy turnout make lower leg scabs 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.