Why are my horse’s pasterns red and swollen?
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Overview
Red, swollen pasterns are often linked to mud, wet ground, irritation or mud fever, but there can be more than one reason. The skin in this area can become sore quite quickly, especially if it stays damp or dirty, so it’s worth checking it carefully and acting early.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the redness or swelling is worse after turnout, after exercise, or when the legs have been wet or muddy.
2. Look closely for scabs, broken skin, discharge, crusting, heat or any signs the skin is sore to touch.
3. Feel both hind and front pasterns so you can compare one side with the other and see if one area is more affected.
4. Check whether your horse is stamping, lifting the leg, objecting to touch or showing any change in how they move.
5. Think about recent changes in turnout, bedding, clipping, grooming, washing or leg bandaging.
6. Look for mud, moisture or urine staining that may be keeping the skin damp for long periods.
7. Note whether the swelling is limited to the pasterns or whether it extends higher up the leg.
Common Causes
The most common cause is mud fever, also called pastern dermatitis, where damp, dirty or irritated skin becomes inflamed and may develop scabs, redness and swelling.
Simple skin irritation can also happen from mud, wet bedding, friction, clipping or washing, especially if the skin stays damp.
Less commonly, the area may be reacting to an insect bite, a minor knock, or another skin problem that needs a closer look if it doesn’t settle.
What To Do
Gently clean the area if needed, but avoid scrubbing hard or picking scabs off, as that can make the skin more sore.
Keep the legs as dry and clean as you reasonably can, and try to reduce time spent in deep mud or wet, dirty conditions.
Watch for changes over the next day or two, including spreading redness, more swelling, discharge or increasing discomfort.
If the skin is already sore, limit anything that makes it more irritated, such as repeated washing, rough drying or muddy turnout where possible.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s pasterns are getting sore in muddy or wet conditions, this collection may be useful as part of a steady cleaning and drying routine.
Related Questions
Is mud fever always itchy?
Should I wash my horse’s legs every day?
When does pastern swelling need a vet check?
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.