5 winter health problems: Mud Fever
By Harriet Linton
Seasonal guides
20 October 2008 09:00
Wherever you go and whatever you do with horses, you’re guaranteed to bump into mud fever at some point. Mud fever is caused by a mixture of bacteria, namely Dermatophilus congolensis and Staphylicoccus. The bacteria live in the mud and can get into a horse’s skin through even the tiniest nick or scrape. The effects can range from very subtle, small scabby areas on the legs and heels to more widespread red sores, cracked heels and scabbing, which can be very sensitive. In extreme cases it can lead to further infection which may be accompanied by lameness, loss of appetite or lethargy. Horses with white legs and pink skin are most susceptible, but mud fever can affect any horse.
Signs
Look out for areas of hair containing crusty scabs and moist lesions beneath scabs. Sometimes you will see a creamy or yellow discharge oozing from under the scabs. Removed scabs will leave raw-looking, inflamed skin. There may also be heat in the area, swelling, sensitivity, and sometimes lameness.
Prevention
● Keep your horse’s legs as clean and dry as possible – if you need to wash legs, dry them properly every time – especially if you plan to bandage them.
● Tape off poached areas in the paddock and alternate gateways if possible.
● Keep his bed clean and dry and consider using a topical barrier cream. Topical lotions are available to help treat mud fever.
Conventional treatment
Clean the affected areas in a mild antiseptic wash and apply a topical cream or lotion to clean dry skin. Depending on severity, your horse may need to be stabled and your vet may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication. Your vet may apply a treatment under scabs in more severe cases – the horse is often sedated to remove scabs.
Complementary treatment
The typical lesions of mud fever often respond well to the remedy Graphites, particularly if there are no scabs present. Use the 30c potency, dosing two or three times daily as needed. Where the skin is badly or severely cracked and covered in scabs Petroleum jelly is a better bet. Where the area has become infected, and the horse may be lame, Rhus tox can be used – it’s also helpful where there is evidence of cellulitis, where the infection has advanced to the deeper tissues of the skin. For even more severe symptoms consider Hepar sulph or Thuja – use the 200c potency for five days.
Other Winter Health problems include Rain scald, Respiratory Conditions, Arthritis and Thrush
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