Why does my horse get mud fever after a few wet days? | arlo.® Atlas

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

Mud fever often shows up after a few wet days because damp, muddy conditions can soften the skin on the lower legs and make it easier for irritation and infection to take hold. It doesn't always mean anything serious, but it does usually mean the skin barrier has been stressed in some way.

There can be more than one reason for it, including muddy turnout, wet bedding, clipped legs, sensitive skin, or small scratches that let bacteria get in. The aim is to spot it early, keep the area clean and dry, and watch for signs that it's getting worse.

Things To Check

1. Check whether the skin on the lower legs looks red, scabby, swollen or sore to touch.

2. Look for any crusting, discharge, broken skin or matted feathers and hair around the heels and pasterns.

3. Notice if it tends to appear after turnout in wet fields, standing in muddy gateways, or long periods in damp bedding.

4. Check whether the horse is stamping, flicking a leg away, or seems uncomfortable when the area is handled.

5. See if both legs are affected or if it started on one side, which can help you judge whether there may have been a local scrape or rub.

6. Think about whether the legs were recently clipped, washed, or left damp after exercise or turnout.

7. Check the surrounding environment too, including stable cleanliness, field poaching and whether mud is sitting around the lower legs for long periods.

Common Causes

The most common cause is prolonged contact with wet mud, which softens the skin and makes it easier for irritation and infection to develop.

Minor skin damage from knocks, tight brushing, clipped hair or friction can also make the area more vulnerable.

Sensitive skin, long feathering, and legs that stay damp for long periods may all add to the problem.

In some horses, an underlying skin issue or allergy can make mud fever seem to return after each spell of wet weather.

What To Do

Start by keeping the legs as clean and dry as you can without over-washing. Gently remove mud, then dry the area well so the skin isn't left damp.

Reduce time standing in deep mud where possible, and try to improve turnout or stable conditions if the ground is very wet.

Keep a close eye on how quickly it appears and whether it is limited to one leg or several. That pattern can be useful if you need to speak to your vet.

Avoid scrubbing hard or repeatedly washing the area, as that can make the skin more irritated. If the skin is already sore, handle it as gently as possible.

If the problem keeps coming back, it may help to review leg care after turnout, drying routines after washing, and how much time the horse spends in wet or muddy areas.

Products That May Help

For horses prone to muddy legs or skin that needs regular attention, a sensible cleaning and care routine can be easier to manage with the right kit to hand.

Hoof, Leg & Mud Care

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