Why is my horse’s skin sore and thickened around the heels? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
Sore, thickened skin around the heels is often linked to mallenders and sallenders, which are skin changes seen in the lower legs. They can look dry, cracked, scabby or inflamed, and there may be more than one reason it’s happening.
It’s sensible to check the area carefully, as the cause can range from mud, moisture and friction to skin irritation or an underlying skin condition. You usually can’t tell the exact cause from looks alone, but you can spot clues that help guide what to do next.
Things To Check
1. Check whether the soreness is on the front or back of the leg, and whether it’s just one leg or both.
2. Look closely for thickened skin, crusts, scabs, redness, broken skin, heat or swelling.
3. Notice if the problem seems worse after wet turnout, muddy fields, clipping, grooming or exercise.
4. Check whether the horse reacts when you touch, wash or brush the area.
5. Look for signs of rubbing from boots, bandages, tack or mud build-up around the heel area.
6. Check if there are similar patches elsewhere on the legs, body, mane or tail, which may suggest a wider skin issue.
7. Note whether the skin is dry and flaky or greasy and sticky, as that can point to different patterns of irritation.
Common Causes
Mud, damp ground and repeated wetting are common causes of irritation around the heels, especially if the skin stays dirty or soft for long periods.
Friction from brushing, clipping, boots or bandages can also make the skin sore and thickened over time.
Some horses develop a skin sensitivity or ongoing lower leg skin problem that needs careful management rather than just cleaning alone.
Less commonly, bacteria, mites or another skin condition may be involved, particularly if the area is spreading, very itchy or slow to settle.
What To Do
Keep the area as clean and dry as you reasonably can without over-washing it. Gentle cleansing and careful drying are usually more useful than repeated scrubbing.
Try to reduce exposure to mud, wet bedding and anything that seems to rub the area. If you use boots or bandages, check the fit and make sure they’re not trapping dirt or moisture.
Monitor the skin for changes over a few days, especially if the horse is turned out in wet conditions. A photo taken in the same light can help you spot whether it’s improving or getting worse.
If the skin looks dry, handle it gently and avoid picking at scabs. If it looks damp or dirty, focus on keeping the area clean and allowing it to dry properly between exposures.
For recurring cases, it helps to review turnout, bedding, grooming routine and anything that might be causing repeated friction or wetness around the heels.
Products That May Help
A gentle washing routine can be useful as part of everyday skin care, especially when you’re trying to keep the heel area clean and comfortable without overdoing it.
Related Questions
Can mallenders and sallenders come back?
Should I wash my horse’s heels every day?
Why does the skin around my horse’s heels keep scabbing?
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.