Why does my horse keep getting greasy heel in autumn and winter?
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Overview
Greasy heel often gets worse in autumn and winter because wet, muddy conditions can irritate the skin on the lower legs. It’s commonly linked to moisture, mud, friction and skin irritation, but there can be more than one cause, so it’s worth checking the pattern carefully.
Things To Check
1. Check whether it appears after turnout in mud, after standing in a wet stable, or after washing the legs.
2. Look closely for redness, scabs, crusting, broken skin, swelling, heat or any discharge.
3. Note whether it’s affecting the heels, pasterns, feathers, or more of the lower leg.
4. Check whether your horse is stamping, rubbing, flicking the legs or seeming uncomfortable when the area is touched.
5. Think about whether the legs are staying damp for long periods after exercise, turnout or washing.
6. Look at the field or yard conditions and whether the horse is regularly standing in mud, wet bedding or dirty gateways.
7. Consider whether a new grooming product, wash, bandage, rug or clipping pattern may have irritated the skin.
Common Causes
The most common trigger is prolonged wetness and mud irritating the skin, especially around the heels and pasterns. This can make the skin more vulnerable and slow down recovery.
Friction from feathers, dirt trapped in the hair, or legs that are washed too often and not dried properly can also play a part. In some horses, sensitivity to grooming products or repeated minor skin irritation can make the problem keep returning.
Less commonly, greasy heel can sit alongside another skin issue, such as bacterial or fungal infection, so it’s important not to assume it’s only a weather problem if it keeps coming back or looks more severe.
What To Do
Keep the area as clean and dry as you reasonably can without over-washing. After turnout or washing, dry the lower legs thoroughly and avoid leaving wet mud sitting on the skin.
Try to reduce repeated exposure to deep mud where possible, and keep stable areas, rugs and grooming kit as clean as you can. If your horse has feathers, check that they’re not holding dampness or mud against the skin.
Monitor whether the problem improves when the weather changes or when turnout conditions improve. Taking a few photos can help you spot whether it’s getting better, staying the same or spreading.
If the skin looks mildly affected, a calm, consistent routine is usually more helpful than frequent scrubbing. The aim is to support the skin and avoid adding more irritation.
When To Contact A Vet
Speak to your vet if the skin is becoming swollen, painful, hot or heavily crusted, if there is discharge or a strong smell, or if your horse seems lame or very uncomfortable. It’s also sensible to get advice if the problem keeps returning, is spreading, or isn’t improving with sensible hygiene and environmental management.
Products That May Help
If your horse is getting greasy heel in wetter months, a good hygiene routine around muddy legs and feathers can make day-to-day management easier. This collection may be useful alongside your normal cleaning and drying routine.
Related Questions
How do I keep my horse's legs dry in winter?
Should I wash greasy heel every day?
Why does greasy heel keep coming back?
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.