What should I do if my horse's sunburned skin starts weeping?
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
If your horse’s sunburned skin starts weeping, treat it as a sign the skin is irritated or damaged rather than just dry and pink. Move the horse out of strong sun, keep the area clean and dry, and watch it closely. There can be several possible causes, including simple sun damage, rubbing, or a skin reaction, so it’s worth checking the pattern carefully.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the weeping started after turnout in bright sun, grooming, clipping, or using a new product.
2. Look closely for redness, heat, swelling, broken skin, scabs, crusting, or any obvious tenderness.
3. Note where the problem is. Sunburn and photosensitivity often affect pink skin, lighter areas, and unpigmented patches first.
4. Check whether the horse is rubbing the area on fences, rugs, stable walls, or tack, as this can make the skin weep more.
5. Look for any smell, thicker discharge, or spreading irritation, which can suggest the skin is becoming more inflamed.
6. Consider whether the horse has been out on lush pasture or has had access to plants that can sometimes be linked with photosensitivity.
7. Check the horse’s general comfort, including appetite, attitude, and whether the area seems painful to touch.
Common Causes
The most common cause is straightforward sunburn, especially on pink skin or areas with less pigment. Mild burns can become moist or weepy if the surface skin is irritated.
Photosensitivity is another common possibility. This means the skin reacts unusually to sunlight, sometimes because of an underlying issue, certain plants, or a reaction to something the horse has contacted.
Rubbing or scratching can also make already sore skin start to weep, especially if the horse is trying to relieve itching or discomfort.
Less commonly, the area could be reacting to a topical product, insect irritation, or a skin infection that needs veterinary assessment.
What To Do
Bring the horse out of direct sunlight straight away if you can. Shade, turnout adjustments, a fly rug or mask where appropriate, and limiting further sun exposure may all help reduce irritation.
Gently clean away any dirt or crusting with cool or lukewarm water if the skin is dirty, then pat dry carefully. Avoid scrubbing, harsh shampoos, or anything fragranced on sore skin.
Keep the area as clean and dry as possible and try to stop the horse rubbing it. If it’s on the face, make sure any headcollar or rug isn’t adding pressure or friction.
Keep a note of whether the weeping settles, stays the same, or gets worse over the next day or two. If you know the trigger, such as a new turnout pattern or a recent clip, it helps to record that too.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the weeping is spreading, the skin looks very painful, swollen or hot, or if there’s a bad smell, pus, or increasing crusting. It’s also sensible to get advice if you suspect photosensitivity rather than simple sunburn, or if the horse seems unwell, off colour, or uncomfortable in themselves.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s skin is sore or flaky after sun exposure, gentle washing and coat care can be useful as part of your normal routine while you monitor the area.
Related Questions
How can I tell if my horse has sunburn or photosensitivity?
Should I wash weeping sunburn on my horse?
How do I stop my horse rubbing sore skin?
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.