Why does my horse have scabs on its pink nose in summer? | arlo.® Atlas

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

Scabs on a pink nose in summer are often caused by sunburn, especially in horses with little pigment on the muzzle. That said, flies, rubbing, or skin irritation can also leave a scabby-looking nose, so it’s worth checking the area closely rather than assuming it’s only the sun.

Things To Check

1. Check whether the scabs are on the parts of the nose most exposed to sun, especially the pink or lightly pigmented areas.

2. Look for redness, warmth, tenderness, cracking, swelling, or weeping skin around the scabs.

3. Notice whether the problem seems worse after turnout, on bright days, or when your horse has been standing in direct sunlight.

4. See if your horse is rubbing the nose on fences, rugs, gates, or stable surfaces.

5. Check for flies landing on the face or for signs your horse is head tossing, stamping, or trying to avoid insects.

6. Look at the nostrils and nearby skin to make sure there isn’t discharge, crusting, or a more general skin irritation.

7. Consider whether any new feed, grooming product, mask, or turnout routine might have coincided with the change.

Common Causes

Sunburn is one of the most common reasons for scabs on a pink horse nose in summer. Light-coloured or unpigmented skin is more easily affected by strong sun, especially after long periods outdoors.

Fly irritation can also make the muzzle sore and scabby, particularly in warm weather when insects are active around the face.

Rubbing from scratching, headcollars, nose nets, or contact with fencing may also cause scabs, especially if the skin is already sensitive.

Less commonly, the scabs may be part of a broader skin reaction or infection that needs veterinary attention if it does not settle.

What To Do

Try to reduce direct sun exposure where you can, especially during the brightest part of the day. A shaded area, turnout timing, or a suitable face covering may help limit further irritation.

Keep the area clean and avoid picking off scabs, as that can make the skin more sore. If the skin is dirty, use a gentle approach and avoid harsh scrubbing.

Watch the area over a few days so you can tell whether it is improving, staying the same, or getting worse. If the scabs spread, become more painful, or your horse starts rubbing more, it’s sensible to get advice.

Also review whether flies are making the problem worse, because summer face irritation often improves when insect pressure is lower and the horse is more comfortable.

Products That May Help

If fly pressure or summer face irritation seems to be part of the problem, this collection may be useful as part of your routine care and turnout management.

Horse Fly Sprays & Summer Care

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