Mud Fever in Horses: Causes, Treatment, and When to Call the Vet

Mud fever (also known as pastern dermatitis) is a common skin condition in horses, particularly during wet and muddy weather. While some mild cases can be managed at home, others require veterinary attention to prevent the condition from becoming painful, chronic, or infected.

What Is Mud Fever?

Mud fever is an inflammatory skin condition that affects the lower limbs, most commonly around the pastern and heel area. It is caused by damage to the skin barrier, allowing bacteria (and sometimes fungi or mites) to enter and cause infection.

It often appears during wet winter months, but can occur at any time of year if conditions are right.

Common Causes of Mud Fever

Mud fever usually develops due to a combination of factors, including:

• Prolonged exposure to wet, muddy, or dirty conditions

• Broken or softened skin, allowing bacteria to penetrate

• Standing in wet bedding or fields

• Horses with white legs (more susceptible)

• Clipping or excessive washing, which can damage the skin’s natural protection

• Underlying conditions that reduce immunity

Signs and Symptoms

Mud fever can range from mild to severe. Signs include:

• Scabs or crusts on the lower legs

• Red, inflamed, or sore skin

• Swelling of the pastern or lower limb

• Heat and pain when touched

• Lameness in more severe cases

• Thickened or cracked skin in chronic cases

Horses may resent handling of the affected area, particularly if it is painful.

Treating Mud Fever

Mild Cases

Early, mild mud fever may be managed with careful home care:

• Keep the legs clean and dry

• Gently remove loose mud (avoid excessive washing)

• Carefully soften and remove scabs only if they come away easily

• Dry the legs thoroughly

• Apply a suitable barrier or antibacterial cream as advised

Over-washing or harsh scrubbing can make the condition worse by further damaging the skin.

More Severe or Persistent Cases

If mud fever does not improve, becomes painful, or worsens, veterinary treatment may be required. This can include:

• Prescription topical treatments

• Oral antibiotics if infection has spread

• Anti-inflammatory medication

• Investigating underlying causes such as mites or immune issues

When Should You Call the Vet?

You should contact your vet if:

• The mud fever does not improve after 7–10 days

• The area is very painful, swollen, or oozing

• Your horse is becoming lame

• The condition keeps returning or spreading

• You are unsure how to treat it safely

Early veterinary involvement can help prevent long-term skin damage and recurring problems.

Preventing Mud Fever

Prevention focuses on protecting the skin and minimising exposure to wet conditions:

• Avoid washing legs daily unless necessary

• Dry legs thoroughly after exposure to mud

• Use barrier creams before turnout if appropriate

• Manage turnout to reduce prolonged exposure to deep mud

• Keep bedding clean and dry

• Monitor white legs closely during wet weather

In Summary

Mud fever is common, but it should not be ignored. While mild cases may respond to careful management, persistent or painful mud fever requires veterinary assessment to prevent complications.

If you are concerned about your horse’s legs or unsure how best to manage mud fever, please don’t hesitate to contact us for advice or an examination.