Mud Fever

CAUSES
Mud Fever is caused by prolonged exposure to wet and muddy conditions. Bacterial or fungal infections that can thrive in damp environments, leading to skin irritation and inflammation.

SIGNS
Affected areas may become swollen and feel warm to the touch.Scabs, crust, lesions or open sores, and hair loss around the affected areas will occur. Horses with mud fever may exhibit signs of discomfort or lameness, as the condition can be painful.

PREVENTION
Rotate turnout areas to prevent overexposure to muddy conditions and ensure your horse's living area is clean and dry, with proper drainage. It may be worth considering using waterproof or breathable leg wraps, boots, or bandages during wet and muddy conditions to help keep the horse's lower limbs dry and clean. Alternatively, you could apply protective barrier creams or ointments before turnout in wet conditions to help repel moisture and protect the skin. Make sure to regularly groom your horse to remove dirt and debris from their coat and lower limb.

TREATMENT
If you are unsure about what treatment method to use, we’d recommend you consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice and recommendations.
At Aivly we recommend that you lookout for early signs of mud fever and address them promptly to prevent the condition from worsening. To clean the affected areas, you should wait for the mud to dry and brush it off, using a soft brush or sponge to remove any scabs, dirt, or debris. You could wash the affected areas with warm water and a mild antiseptic, but it’s crucial to keep the skin as dry as possible. Once the horse has recovered, continue with preventive measures.