Why is my horse getting scabs on its back, legs, or rump in autumn?
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Overview
Scabs on a horse’s back, legs or rump in autumn are often linked to rain scald, but they can also be caused by mud, damp skin, grooming friction, insects or other skin irritation. It’s worth checking the pattern, the weather and how the skin looks so you can work out what may be going on and decide what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the scabs appear after wet turnout, damp rugs, muddy fields or long periods in a wet coat.
2. Look closely for patchy hair loss, soreness, redness, heat, swelling or any discharge around the scabs.
3. Feel whether the skin seems dry and crusty, greasy, or tender to touch.
4. Notice whether the problem is on exposed areas such as the back, rump or lower legs, or under tack, rugs or boots.
5. Check for signs of rubbing, stamping, tail swishing or biting insects, which can point towards irritation rather than a single skin infection.
6. Think about recent grooming, clipping, washing or changes in rugging that might have affected the skin barrier.
7. Compare both sides of the body and note whether the scabs are spreading or staying in one place.
Common Causes
Rain scald is one of the most common causes in damp weather. It often shows up as small scabs where the coat has stayed wet for too long, especially along the back, rump or other exposed areas.
Mud, wet bedding or repeated washing can also irritate the skin and make it more likely to scab, particularly on the legs.
Rugging friction, tack rubbing or grooming irritation can cause local sore patches that then crust over.
In some horses, insects or allergy-type skin irritation can look similar, especially if there’s itching or rubbing alongside the scabs.
Less commonly, skin infection or another underlying skin problem may be involved, particularly if the area is painful, spreading or not settling with routine care.
What To Do
Keep the horse as dry as you reasonably can and avoid leaving damp rugs or wet coat patches in place for long periods.
Be gentle with grooming. If the skin is sore, avoid hard brushing or picking scabs off.
If the area is muddy, lightly clean it only when needed and dry it well afterwards.
Review turnout, rug fit and any tack or boots that might be rubbing the same spot.
Keep a simple note of where the scabs are, whether they’re spreading and what the weather has been like, as this can help you spot a pattern.
If the skin looks uncomfortable or keeps recurring, it’s sensible to ask your vet for advice.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s skin is getting grubby, greasy or difficult to keep clean through wetter weather, a gentle wash routine may be useful as part of your day-to-day care.
Related Questions
Is rain scald the same as mud fever?
Should I pick the scabs off my horse?
When should scabs on a horse be checked by a vet?
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.