Companion Animals

Horse Mud Fever Dermatophilosis Welfare

Mud fever (pastern dermatitis/rain scald) causes painful skin lesions on horse limbs, particularly in wet winter conditions, and can progress to serious lameness if untreated.

Key Facts

Mud fever is caused by Dermatophilus congolensis bacteria penetrating softened skin
Pasterns and lower limbs are most commonly affected in wet muddy conditions
Thick scab formation causes pain and progressive lameness in untreated cases
Treatment involves removing scabs gently, cleaning, and applying antimicrobial preparations
Prevention requires limiting mud exposure through field management and limb protection

Welfare Considerations

Mud fever causes localised pain that progresses to lameness. Prevention through field management is more effective and less distressing than treating established disease.

What You Can Do

Limit time in muddy fields and provide sacrifice areas in winter
Keep limbs clean and dry, particularly after work or turnout in wet conditions
Check pasterns and lower legs regularly in winter for early signs of mud fever
Seek veterinary treatment if mud fever is severe, spreading, or causing lameness