Why are there scabs on my horse’s back after turnout in the rain?
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
Scabs on a horse’s back after turnout in the rain are often linked to rain scald, but they can also come from rubbing, minor skin irritation, or damp coat and skin getting chafed under rugs or tack. It’s worth checking the area closely, because the skin can look similar across a few different causes.
Most of the time, the aim is to keep the area clean, dry and monitored while you work out what’s triggering it. If the skin looks painful, is spreading, or your horse seems unwell, veterinary advice is sensible.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the scabs appear after specific weather, such as prolonged rain, or only when your horse comes in wet.
2. Look closely for hair loss, redness, raised crusts, discharge, swelling or obvious soreness.
3. Feel gently for heat or tenderness over the back, but don't keep prodding if the skin seems sore.
4. Check whether a rug, saddle pad or other tack is rubbing the same area every time.
5. Note whether the coat is staying damp for a long time after turnout or washing.
6. Look for scabs anywhere else on the body, especially along the topline, rump or areas that stay wet.
7. Check whether flies, scratching, or mutual grooming might be contributing to broken skin.
Common Causes
Rain scald is one of the most common reasons. It often appears after wet weather as small crusty scabs, usually where the coat stays damp for a long time.
Rubbing or chafing from rugs, tack or a wet coat can also leave scabs or sore patches on the back.
Skin irritation from sweat, mud, poor drying, or sensitive skin may make the area more likely to break down after turnout in the rain.
Less commonly, there could be a bacterial skin infection or another skin condition that needs a closer look, especially if the area is spreading or not settling.
What To Do
Bring your horse in, if possible, and let the back dry naturally in a clean, well-ventilated space.
Avoid scrubbing the scabs off, as that can make the skin more sore and slow down healing.
Check rugs, saddle fit and any areas of repeated rubbing, and make sure wet gear is not being put back on over damp skin.
Keep a simple note of when the scabs appear, what the weather was like, and whether they improve or worsen with turnout, grooming or rug changes.
If the skin is dirty, use gentle routine cleaning and dry the area well afterwards. A careful coat-washing routine may also help if your horse has a sensitive or repeatedly damp coat.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s back is prone to getting dirty, damp or irritated after wet turnout, a gentle wash routine can be useful as part of your day-to-day care.
Related Questions
Is rain scald the same as mud fever?
Should I rug my horse after rain if the back is getting scabby?
How do I tell rubbing from rain scald on my horse?
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.