Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Mud Fever Prevention Protocols

Systematic mud fever prevention protocols in winter protect horses from this common and painful bacterial skin condition through management of wet conditions.

Key Facts

Mud fever is caused by Dermatophilus congolensis thriving in wet soil on horse pasterns
Prevention is more effective than treatment once established skin lesions develop
Barrier products applied to clean, dry legs provide water-resistant protection
Rotating pastures reduces mud depth that is the primary exposure route
Pink-legged horses are significantly more susceptible requiring more intensive prevention

Welfare Considerations

Mud fever prevention protects horses from painful skin lesions that can progress to severe lameness without adequate management. Proactive prevention through appropriate paddock management, protective products, and regular leg inspection is far preferable to treating established disease.

What You Can Do

Apply barrier products to susceptible horses' legs before turnout in wet conditions
Provide hard standing and dry areas that reduce leg contact with wet mud
Inspect horses' legs regularly through winter for early mud fever signs