Horse Mud Fever Welfare Management

Mud fever (pastern dermatitis) is a common, painful skin condition in horses that causes significant welfare harm if unrecognised or poorly managed during wet winter conditions.

Key Facts

Mud fever is caused by Dermatophilus congolensis bacteria in wet conditions, sometimes complicated by Fusobacterium
Signs include scabbing, heat, swelling, and pain in the pastern and lower leg area
Affected horses may be severely lame and refuse to bear weight on affected limbs
Prevention through pasture management to reduce mud exposure is highly effective
Treatment involves careful scab removal, antibacterial washing, and moisture barrier application
Hairy-legged breeds including draught horses and native ponies are particularly susceptible
Long-term unmanaged mud fever can cause cellulitis, a life-threatening secondary infection

Welfare Considerations

Mud fever causes significant, often underestimated pain and lameness in affected horses. Many horses suffer through winter with undiagnosed or poorly managed mud fever that could be effectively prevented or treated. Proactive pasture management, regular leg inspection, and prompt treatment at the first signs of infection are essential welfare interventions for horses kept at grass in wet climates.

What You Can Do

Implement pasture management strategies to reduce mud exposure around gates and feeding areas
Check horses' lower legs daily for early signs of scabbing and heat during wet weather
Treat mud fever promptly following veterinary or equine nurse guidance
Apply barrier products to protect susceptible horses' legs during wet periods
Discuss mud fever prevention and management with your vet or equine physiotherapist