What should I do if my horse has ring-shaped hair loss? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
Ring-shaped hair loss on a horse is often associated with ringworm, but it can have other causes too. The main thing is to check the area closely, keep things clean and separate from other horses until you know more.
It’s sensible to monitor it over the next few days, because the pattern, any scurf or scabbing, and whether it spreads can give useful clues. A vet may be needed if it’s not settling or if other horses start showing similar patches.
Things To Check
1. Check where the hair loss is and whether the patch is round, spreading or appearing in more than one place.
2. Look closely for scurf, crusting, broken hairs, redness or any mild swelling around the edge.
3. See whether the horse seems itchy, is rubbing the area, or is otherwise uncomfortable.
4. Check if the patch appeared after close grooming, tack use, rug friction or contact with another horse.
5. Look at other horses, especially shared stablemates, for similar patches or scabby areas.
6. Note whether the skin feels unusually hot, wet, sore or has any discharge.
7. Think about recent changes in turnout, weather, hygiene, grooming kit sharing or rug use.
Common Causes
Ringworm is one of the more common causes of ring-shaped hair loss in horses. Despite the name, it’s a skin infection, not a worm, and it can spread between horses, people and equipment.
Other possible causes include rubbing from tack or rugs, minor skin irritation, insect bites, or simple hair loss after a scab has lifted. Less commonly, skin allergy or another type of infection may be involved.
What To Do
Keep the area clean and avoid picking at scabs or crusts. If possible, don’t share grooming kit, rugs or tack until you’ve worked out what’s going on.
Wash your hands after handling the horse and clean any brushes, headcollars or items that may have touched the patch. If the area is being rubbed by tack or a rug, check the fit and ease off anything that seems to be irritating the skin.
Take a clear photo today so you can compare it over the next few days. If the patch spreads, more patches appear, or other horses are affected, speak to your vet for advice.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the hair loss is spreading, if the skin becomes very sore, swollen or oozing, or if you’re seeing similar patches on other horses or people. A vet can help confirm what’s causing it and advise on the best way to manage it.
Products That May Help
If you’re dealing with a skin patch that needs gentle washing or routine coat care, a suitable shampoo or wash can be useful as part of your day-to-day management. It can also help when you need to keep the area clean without overhandling it.
Related Questions
Is ringworm in horses contagious?
Can horses pass ringworm to people?
How long does ringworm in horses take to clear up?
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.