Horse Rain Scald: Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Rain scald is a bacterial skin infection causing painful crusting lesions on horses exposed to prolonged wet conditions. Understanding its causes helps owners protect horses through effective management.

Key Facts

Rain scald is caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, a bacterium activated by prolonged moisture
The condition affects the back, hindquarters, and neck — areas exposed to rain runoff
Lesions appear as crusty scabs with matted hair; removing scabs reveals raw, painful skin beneath
Horses with poor coat condition or compromised immune systems are more susceptible
The bacterium can survive in soil and on tack, potentially spreading between horses
Most cases resolve within 2-3 weeks with appropriate treatment and dry conditions

Welfare Considerations

Rain scald causes significant discomfort, with raw skin lesions that are painful to touch. Tacking up an affected horse can cause distress, and untreated cases can worsen considerably. The condition is often preventable with adequate shelter and management, making it a welfare issue closely tied to husbandry standards.

What You Can Do

Provide horses with adequate field shelter so they can escape prolonged rain
Inspect skin regularly, particularly after wet weather, parting the coat to check
Gently remove scabs after softening with warm water or antiseptic wash
Apply prescribed antimicrobial treatments recommended by your vet
Avoid sharing rugs, tack, or grooming equipment between horses during outbreaks
Allow skin to dry thoroughly before rugging — trapping moisture worsens the condition