What should I do if my horse’s greasy heel is bleeding? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your horse’s greasy heel is bleeding, the skin is likely sore, cracked or irritated enough that the surface has broken down. The immediate aim is to keep it as clean and dry as you can, avoid making it worse, and watch for signs that it’s becoming infected or more painful.
Bleeding can happen with greasy heel for several reasons, including inflammation from mud, damp conditions, rubbing, scratching or secondary infection. You usually can’t tell the exact cause from the bleeding alone, so it’s best to focus on gentle care and close monitoring.
Things To Check
1. Check how much it’s bleeding and whether the bleeding has stopped after gentle pressure.
2. Look closely for cracked skin, scabs, redness, swelling, heat or discharge around the heel and pastern.
3. Notice whether your horse is sensitive when you touch the area, picks the leg up, or seems lame.
4. Think about whether it’s been worse after turnout in wet ground, standing in mud, or being washed and left damp.
5. Check for signs of scratching or rubbing, as this can open the skin further.
6. Look at both legs, because greasy heel and skin irritation can affect more than one area.
7. Consider whether there’s any smell, crusting or sticky discharge, which can suggest the skin is getting more inflamed.
Common Causes
The most common causes are mud, moisture and skin irritation, especially where the heel and pastern stay wet or dirty for long periods. Repeated washing without drying properly can also leave the skin more vulnerable.
Scratching, rubbing against fences or stable fittings, and sensitivity to mud or debris can break the skin surface and lead to bleeding. In some horses, greasy heel is made worse by a secondary bacterial or fungal skin problem, which can make the area more sore and crusty.
Less commonly, similar signs can be linked with other skin conditions that need a vet to sort out, especially if the area isn’t improving or seems to be spreading.
What To Do
If the bleeding is light, start by gently cleaning away dirt with lukewarm water or a mild, horse-safe wash, then dry the area carefully. Don’t scrub the skin, pick at scabs or keep the leg wet for long periods.
Reduce exposure to mud and damp where possible, and keep the stable or turnout conditions as clean and dry as you can. If the area is likely to get rubbed, monitor it daily so you can spot changes early.
If the skin is cracked or sore, keep handling calm and simple. Small changes in routine often help more than repeated washing. Take a photo so you can compare whether it’s settling or getting worse.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the bleeding doesn’t stop, the area is becoming more swollen, hot or painful, or your horse is lame. You should also get advice if there’s discharge, a strong smell, spreading skin changes, or no improvement after a few days of sensible care.
Products That May Help
If you’re managing greasy heel, gentle washing and good coat hygiene can be useful as part of a sensible routine. The right wash products may help you keep the area clean without making the skin feel overly harsh.
Related Questions
Should I wash greasy heel every day?
How do I stop greasy heel coming back in wet weather?
When is greasy heel serious enough to call the 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.