Mud Fever in Horses: Welfare Management of Pastern Dermatitis
Mud fever (equine pastern dermatitis) causes painful skin infections of the lower legs in horses, with welfare management requiring both treatment and environmental modification.
Key Facts
- Caused by bacteria (Dermatophilus, Staphylococci) in wet, muddy conditions
- Causes scabs, matted hair, swelling, and pain in the lower legs
- Severe cases cause significant lameness and systemic signs
- Management requires scab removal, topical treatment, and keeping legs dry
- Preventing access to deep mud is the most important long-term welfare intervention
Welfare Considerations
Mud fever welfare impact ranges from minor skin soreness to severe lameness and systemic illness in advanced cases. The removal of scabs, though necessary for treatment, is painful and requires careful management including sedation in severe cases. The underlying skin damage allows bacterial entry, so prevention of prolonged wetness is essential. Environmental management — providing well-drained turnout, rotating pastures, and providing dry shelter — is as important as treatment. Horses in permanent deep mud cannot achieve welfare despite medical treatment. Winter management planning that provides dry standing areas is essential for welfare-conscious horse keeping.
What You Can Do
- Provide well-drained turnout and dry standing areas during wet weather
- Check lower legs daily for early signs of scab formation and act promptly
- Clean and dry legs gently after wet conditions
- Seek veterinary assessment for severe or non-responding cases
- Consider barrier products to protect legs during unavoidable wet exposure