Equine Rain Scald: Welfare and Skin Disease Management in Horses

Rain scald (dermatophilosis) causes painful skin lesions in horses exposed to prolonged wet conditions, requiring prevention through management and prompt treatment.

Key Facts

Rain scald is caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, an actinomycete bacterium
Lesions form crusts and matted hair along the back and hindquarters
The condition is triggered by prolonged skin wetting which compromises barrier function
Treatment involves removing crusts, antibiotics when severe, and drying affected areas
Prevention focuses on providing adequate shelter from prolonged rain

Welfare Considerations

Horses with rain scald experience skin pain from inflamed lesions and discomfort when rugged or brushed over affected areas. Severe cases with extensive lesions cause systemic signs including fever and reluctance to be touched. In field conditions without shelter, horses are exposed to prolonged wet weather that makes prevention impossible. Welfare-focused management provides adequate field shelter, waterproof rugs for sensitive individuals, and prompt treatment recognition. The condition is preventable with appropriate management in the vast majority of cases.

What You Can Do

Provide adequate field shelter for horses exposed to prolonged wet conditions
Check horses regularly for early rain scald lesions along the back
Use waterproof rugs in high-risk horses during persistent wet weather
Seek veterinary treatment for severe cases with systemic signs
Maintain good body condition to support skin barrier function