What do you use to treat mud fever?

Mud fever is a common skin condition mostly affecting the heels, pasterns and coronet band of horses that spend too much time standing in wet or muddy areas. Poor living conditions result in skin infection and sores from bacteria and fungus, which can cause a great deal of pain. In severe cases, the horse may develop cracked heals and abscesses that can take a long time to heal. Horses with white socks or stockings are more susceptible to the condition than unmarked horses due to lack of pigmentation in the affected area. Most cases occur in late winter and early spring.

Mud fever is essentially the same condition as rain rot, but more severe and limited to the legs.

The first action to take when treating mud fever is to permanently remove the horse from the source of trouble. This may mean keeping a cleaner stall, not using a muddy paddock for turnout, and not riding in very sloppy conditions (which is dangerous, anyway). You will never be able to heal a horse that is constantly exposed to deep mud and manure.

Next, use clippers or scissors to remove as much hair as possible from around the affected area. Thoroughly wash the wounds with an anti-fungal/antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine (Hibiscrub) or hexetidine (Triocil).

Remove any scabs and debris, and scrub the underlying skin as well, taking care not to cause excessive pain. Rinse the legs and pat them dry with a clean towel. You can also use a hairdryer set to low heat to speed drying.

Finally, apply antibacterial, antibiotic ointment to the wounds. You will need to keep the legs clean and dry for treatment to be effective; however, avoid over-treating or washing too frequently with harsh chemicals, as this can cause further damage to the skin.

The best treatment for mud fever is prevention. Always rinse and dry muddy legs following a workout, and considering using bell boots to prevent clipping or other small injuries that provide a fertile home for bacteria to grow.

As with any serious illness, injury or condition, consult your veterinarian for further advice.