Rain Rot Welfare in Horses and Management

Rain rot is a bacterial skin infection causing matted, crusted lesions on horses kept in wet conditions. Prevention through shelter and grooming maintains skin health and welfare.

Key Facts

Rain rot is caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, a bacteria activated by wet conditions
It causes crusty matted lesions most commonly on the back, hindquarters, and legs
Horses without adequate shelter during prolonged wet periods are most affected
Immunocompromised and stressed horses are more susceptible
Treatment involves removing crusts, drying the skin, and applying antibiotics where needed

Welfare Considerations

Rain rot causes skin pain and discomfort as crusty lesions form over large areas of the back and hindquarters. Horses with severe rain rot resist grooming and saddling as the crusts are painful when disturbed. Prevention through provision of adequate shelter, regular grooming to remove mud, and waterproof rugs during prolonged wet weather is far more effective than treatment after infection establishes. Horses kept in wet, muddy conditions without shelter are welfare compromised before lesions even develop.

What You Can Do

Provide field shelter accessible to all horses during prolonged wet weather
Groom horses regularly to remove mud and check for early skin lesions
Fit waterproof rugs for horses with rain rot or susceptible skin during wet spells
Seek veterinary advice for severe rain rot with widespread lesion distribution