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Horse Article
Treating and Preventing Mud Fever
Mud fever or greasy heel is a reaction to bacteria in the ground. It is particularly common in Winter, when horses spend periods of time standing in wet mud. The wet conditions weaken the skin's defences, making it easier for the bacteria to gain entry. The bacteria then cause a hypersensitive reaction that can lead to swelling, pain and bleeding. The hair will become matted and tufted and usually fall off the affected area and scabs will form.
Although most commonly found in the heels, patches can occur on other parts of the body. My own horse is a traditional heavyweight coloured cob who suffered badly in her first winter with me in her heels and knees.
Some horses are more prone to mud fever than others and the condition often recurs, although an attack can occur in a horse that has not suffered previously and not recur.
For most owners it is not practical to keep the horse in a mud free area, so preventing and treating the problem is essential.
Tackling the problem from the inside as well as the outside seems to be especially effective and there are many products available that do both.
Ensure that your horse has a diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients essential for good skin health. Consult a feed merchant or nutritionist to establish which products are best for your horse, taking it's other nutritional requirements into consideration.
Wash affected areas with cold water and a gentle shampoo with antibacterial properties, like teatree oil, then dry thoroughly before applying an ointment that will act as a barrier cream and support the repair of the affected area.
Opinion is varied on how to treat horses with heavy feathering on the legs. I found that keeping my horse's legs clipped helped, as I could see the affected areas more easily and apply ointment just where it was needed.
I now use a mud repellent powder or ointment throughout the winter to help prevent the condition from recurring.
Nancy Griffiths
www.horseandrider-directory.com