Working Animals

Horse Rain Rot and Skin Infections

Rain rot and other bacterial skin infections cause discomfort and secondary welfare problems in horses, particularly in wet climates and when rugged or housed inadequately.

Key Facts

Rain rot is caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, a bacteria that infects damaged or wet skin
Conditions include matted, crusty scabs over the back, neck, and hindquarters
Soft tissue damage under scabs causes pain particularly when rugs or saddles are applied
Horses with compromised immune systems or poor nutrition are more susceptible
Treatment involves gentle removal of scabs, antiseptic washes, and improved management

Welfare Considerations

Active rain rot causes discomfort from crusty, matted lesions and pain when touched or tacked up. Horses may resist grooming and tacking due to the discomfort. Chronic or severe cases can involve large areas of the body and significant secondary infection. Prevention through appropriate rug management, shelter provision, and maintaining skin integrity is more welfare-positive than treating established infection.

What You Can Do

Provide adequate shelter to reduce prolonged wetting of horse skin
Inspect horses regularly especially under rugs in wet weather
Treat rain rot promptly with appropriate antiseptic washes and scab removal
Do not share grooming equipment between horses with active infection
Review rug fit and turnout management if rain rot is recurring