Prevention and treatment for wet weather
With South Africa experiencing heavy rainfall across many regions, mud fever cases are on the rise. This painful bacterial skin infection thrives in wet, muddy conditions and can quickly escalate from minor scabs to serious lameness if left untreated.
What causes mud fever?
Mud fever, also known as pastern dermatitis or scratches, occurs when bacteria penetrate the skin barrier on horses’ lower legs. Constant exposure to wet, muddy conditions softens the skin, creating tiny cracks that allow bacteria to enter. The pastern and heel areas are particularly vulnerable as they remain in contact with wet ground and mud for extended periods.
The condition is exacerbated by several factors: horses with white legs or pink skin are more susceptible, feathered breeds trap moisture against the skin, and poor stable hygiene or overly wet turnout areas create ideal conditions for bacterial growth.
Recognising the signs
Early detection is crucial. Initial symptoms include heat in the lower legs, crusty scabs forming on the pasterns or heels, and swelling in the affected area. As the condition progresses, you may notice oozing lesions beneath scabs, the horse becoming sensitive to touch in the area, lameness developing, and in severe cases, significant leg swelling extending up the cannon bone.
Prevention strategies
The most effective treatment is prevention. Provide dry standing areas in paddocks using hardcore or rubber matting near gates and water troughs. Ensure good drainage across turnout areas and rotate grazing to prevent poached, muddy patches. Many yard managers are now creating sacrifice areas during particularly wet weather to preserve pasture and reduce mud-related health issues.
Daily leg inspections are essential during wet weather. Check heels and pasterns carefully, and if legs are muddy, consider whether washing is necessary – sometimes allowing mud to dry and brushing it off is gentler on the skin than repeated washing. When you do wash legs, always dry them thoroughly afterwards, paying particular attention to heels and the back of the pastern where moisture tends to linger.
Barrier creams can be helpful for horses prone to mud fever. Apply to clean, dry skin before turnout to create a protective layer, though be aware these need reapplication after wet conditions. Some horses benefit from turnout boots, though these must be checked regularly and kept clean to avoid trapping moisture.
Treatment approach
If mud fever develops despite preventive measures, prompt treatment is essential. Remove scabs gently after softening with warm water or antibacterial wash – never pick off dry scabs as this damages healing skin and causes pain. Clean the affected area with dilute chlorhexidine or iodine solution, then dry thoroughly.
Apply prescribed topical treatments as directed by your veterinarian. Keep the area as dry as possible and consider stable rest during treatment if conditions are very wet. Severe cases may require systemic antibiotics, so consult your vet if you see extensive lesions, significant lameness, swelling extending up the leg, or no improvement after several days of treatment.
When to call the vet
Not all cases of mud fever respond to basic management. Contact your vet if the condition is severe or spreading, if your horse is lame, if there’s significant swelling or heat in the leg, or if home treatment hasn’t improved things within three to four days. Some cases involve secondary fungal infections or require systemic medication that only a veterinarian can prescribe.
Looking ahead
As climate patterns shift and South Africa experiences more intense rainfall events, proactive mud management becomes increasingly important. Investing in proper drainage, creating dry standing areas, and maintaining vigilant daily checks will protect your horses from this painful and potentially serious condition.