Companion Animals

Horse Mud Fever Prevention in Winter

Mud fever is widespread in UK horses during winter. Prevention through pasture management and leg care protects welfare better than treatment after infection develops.

Key Facts

Mud fever occurs when Dermatophilus bacteria infect skin softened by prolonged wet exposure
Prevention through keeping legs dry is more effective than any treatment once infection is established
Strip grazing dry areas of pasture reduces leg mud exposure compared to continuous paddock access
Barrier creams applied before turnout protect susceptible leg skin from mud contact
Some horses require stable rest during the wettest months to prevent recurrent severe mud fever

Welfare Considerations

Mud fever prevention requires proactive management during the high-risk winter period rather than reactive treatment after infection develops. The chronic pain of severe mud fever - swelling, scabbing, and lameness - is substantially more welfare-compromising than the management required to prevent it. Anticipating mud fever risk and acting preventively is the most welfare-positive approach.

What You Can Do

Apply barrier creams to susceptible leg skin before turnout during wet weather
Identify and rest dry pasture areas for horse turnout to reduce mud contact
Monitor leg skin daily during wet periods to detect early mud fever before it becomes severe
Consult your vet about prescription barrier and antifungal preparations for recurrent mud fever cases