Why does my horse have circular bald patches? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
Circular bald patches on a horse are often seen with ringworm, but they can also be caused by rubbing, bites, minor skin irritation or other skin conditions. You can't tell for certain just by looking, so it's best to check the area carefully and keep an eye on any spread or worsening.
Things To Check
1. Look at whether the bald patches are round, scabby, flaky or have broken hairs at the edges.
2. Check if the skin is sore, raised, crusty, wet, red or warm to the touch.
3. See whether the patches are spreading, multiplying or appearing on other horses in the yard.
4. Think about recent changes such as new rugs, tack, grooming kit, turnout, bedding or contact with other horses.
5. Check for rubbing points on the chest, shoulders, withers, girth area, face or legs.
6. Look for evidence of itchiness, such as rubbing, stamping, biting at the skin or restlessness.
7. Note whether the horse seems otherwise well, or whether there are signs of discomfort, swelling or discharge.
Common Causes
Ringworm is one of the most common causes of circular bald patches in horses. It often causes round areas of hair loss with flaky skin or scabs, and it can spread by contact with infected horses, tack, rugs or grooming tools.
Rubbing from rugs, saddles, headcollars or repeated friction can also leave neat-looking bald patches, especially if the same area is being irritated over and over.
Less commonly, bites, minor skin infections, lice, mites or other skin issues may be involved. Sometimes the pattern looks similar even when the cause is different.
What To Do
Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid picking at scabs or brushing harshly over the patches.
Use separate grooming tools, rugs and tack for any horse with suspected ringworm-like lesions until the cause is clearer, and wash hands after handling the area.
Check whether anything in the horse's routine could be rubbing, and make small changes where needed, such as adjusting fit or reducing friction points.
Monitor the patches for spread, crusting or changes in the horse's comfort, and make a note if other horses develop similar signs.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the patches are spreading quickly, look very inflamed, are weeping or painful, or if several horses are affected. It's also sensible to get advice if you're not sure whether it is ringworm, or if the skin has not improved with basic hygiene and management changes.
Products That May Help
If your horse has patchy skin or needs regular washing as part of your grooming routine, this collection may be useful for supporting everyday coat and skin care.
Related Questions
Is ringworm in horses contagious?
How can I tell ringworm from rubbing or mud rash?
Should I wash grooming kit after a horse has bald patches?
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.