Mud fever, also known as pastern dermatitis, is a common skin condition which affects our horses and ponies in wet and muddy conditions. Typically caused by bacteria in the soil and resulting from our equines being exposed to a prolonged wet environment the skin problem can cause the skin of the limbs to soften and crack; and bacteria to enter the body.
What does it look like?
Mud fever presents in the pastern region and on the heel. Visual signs include broken and damaged skin and crusty scabs. Some horses can also have patches of hair loss and in the heavier breeds their feathers can become matted. Mud fever can range from mild to severe and when an infection is more serious there may be heat, swelling and discharge from the affected area. Sometimes lameness can also be seen.
Who is at risk?
Any equine standing in wet and muddy conditions for long periods can be at risk for mud fever but older horses, horses with Cushings or weakened immune systems are more likely to suffer. Breeds such as Arabians and Thoroughbreds may also be more susceptible due to their thin skin. The heavier breeds with feathers can also be affected due to mites creating an entry point and the horse itching their limbs. Management issues such as standing in wet, dirty bedding or the regular washing of the legs without drying them can also contribute to increasing the likelihood of mud fever.
How do you treat it?
Reducing exposure to wet and muddy paddocks is at the forefront of reducing symptoms.
In some cases it can be beneficial to remove the scabs and clean the limbs with a mild disinfectant - however this should be done under veterinary guidance. If you suspect mites are part of the cause this can also be treated with veterinary intervention. Once the limbs are clean and treated, applying stable bandages or wraps to dry legs can reduce swelling and further discomfort.
What can you do to help prevent cracked and sore skin occuring?
Mud Manager developed by Scientific Nutritional Products can help to improve your equine's skin and coat condition healing the body from the inside out. The supplement helps mud related conditions by reducing the risk of dry, cracked and sore skin. Mud Manager contains Zinc, MSM, Biotin, Methionine, Protein and Omega-3 . Mud Manager can also encourage natural regeneration of skin and hair in the affected area.
Mud Manager is a brilliant supplement to help with Wet and Muddy Fields.
Mud Manager can be purchased online from www.horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk or for more information contact our nutritional specialist Peter Fishpool on FREEPHONE 0800 032 7774
