Why does my horse keep getting scabs on the lower legs?
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Overview
Scabs on the lower legs are often linked to irritation of the skin, especially if the legs are getting wet, muddy or greasy, or if there’s rubbing and repeated scratching. In some horses, this pattern can fit mallenders or sallenders, but there can be several possible causes, so it’s worth checking the area carefully rather than assuming it’s just one thing.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the scabs are mainly on the back of the front legs or the front of the hind legs, as the location can be a useful clue.
2. Look for redness, thickened skin, crusting, hair loss, heat, swelling or any cracked skin around the scabs.
3. Notice whether the problem seems worse after turnout, in muddy fields, after clipping, or when the skin has been washed a lot.
4. Check whether the horse is rubbing, stamping, brushing the legs together or seeming itchy around the area.
5. Feel whether the skin is greasy, dry, flaky or sore to touch.
6. Look at turnout conditions, stable bedding and how often the lower legs are being washed or left damp.
7. Check whether there are any scabs elsewhere on the body, which may suggest a wider skin issue rather than a local one.
Common Causes
The most common causes are repeated irritation from mud, moisture, sweat, friction or over-washing. The skin on the lower legs can be sensitive, and once it gets irritated it may keep forming scabs if the trigger stays in place.
Some horses develop mallenders or sallenders, which usually affect the skin in the bends and lower parts of the limbs and can look dry, scabby or thickened. These often need steady management rather than one-off cleaning.
Other possibilities include minor skin infections, mites, allergic skin reactions or irritation caused by clipping, tack or environmental dampness. Less commonly, deeper skin problems can be involved, especially if the skin is sore, swollen or not improving.
What To Do
Keep the area clean and dry, but avoid harsh scrubbing or repeated washing, as that can make irritated skin worse. If you do wash the legs, dry them well afterwards.
Try to note when the scabs appear and whether anything makes them flare up, such as wet turnout, sweaty exercise or bedding. That pattern can help you narrow down the trigger.
Reduce avoidable irritation where you can. That may mean checking mud levels, avoiding unnecessary leg washing, and making sure grooming products and routines are gentle.
Don’t pick at the scabs, as this can make the skin more sore and slow the area down from settling.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s lower legs are getting scabby, gentle grooming and washing routines may help you manage the area without overdoing it. A simple care routine can be useful if the skin is being irritated by dirt, sweat or everyday muck.
Related Questions
Are scabs on my horse’s lower legs always mallenders or sallenders?
Should I wash scabs on my horse’s legs or leave them alone?
Why does my horse get scabs on the back of the front legs?
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.