What should I check if my horse’s greasy heel is getting worse?
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Overview
If your horse’s greasy heel is getting worse, it’s worth checking for changes in the skin, the lower legs and the environment around turnout or stable care. Greasy heel can have several possible causes, and the main aim is to spot whether the skin is becoming more irritated, more moist or more widespread.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the problem is staying in one small patch or spreading further up the heel, pastern or lower leg.
2. Look closely for redness, scabs, broken skin, discharge, crusting or any area that feels warm or swollen.
3. Notice whether the skin seems more greasy, damp or dirty after turnout, exercise, washing or grooming.
4. Check if the field, stable or bedding has become wetter, muddier or dustier than usual.
5. Look at your washing routine and grooming tools to see whether the skin is being rubbed, over-washed or left damp.
6. Check for itching, stamping, sensitivity when touched or signs your horse is bothering the area more than before.
7. Compare both legs, as greasy heel is sometimes easier to judge when you can see whether one side is clearly more affected.
8. Note any changes in diet, turnout time, exercise or rugging that might have affected coat and skin condition.
Common Causes
The most common triggers are moisture, mud, dirty or damp legs, and skin irritation from repeated washing or rubbing. Some horses are also more prone to greasy heel after wet turnout, especially if the skin stays soft and damp for long periods.
Less commonly, greasy-looking skin changes can be linked with infection, mites, sensitivity to something in the environment, or another skin condition that needs a closer look. You can’t tell the exact cause just from appearance alone, so it’s best to focus on the pattern of the symptoms.
What To Do
Keep a simple note of where the problem is, what it looks like and whether it changes after turnout or washing. That makes it much easier to tell if your current routine is helping or if things are gradually worsening.
Try to keep the area clean and dry without scrubbing it repeatedly. If your horse is muddy, gently remove surface dirt and make sure the skin is dried properly afterwards. If the legs are being washed often, check whether they’re staying damp for too long.
It can also help to look at turnout conditions, bedding and grooming habits. Small changes to reduce constant wetting, rubbing or dirt build-up may make a difference over time.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the skin is becoming sore, swollen, cracked or very painful, if there’s discharge or a strong smell, or if your horse seems uncomfortable when the area is touched. You should also get advice if it’s spreading quickly or not improving with sensible routine care.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s skin is getting greasy, a simple washing and grooming routine may help you keep the area cleaner and make changes easier to spot. This collection can support regular coat care without overcomplicating your day-to-day routine.
Related Questions
Why does my horse keep getting greasy heel?
How do I clean greasy heel without irritating the skin?
When should greasy heel be checked by a vet?
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.