Mud fever in horses: causes, symptoms and treatment

HomeMud fever in horses: causes, symptoms and treatment

published on 20. August 2024

Mud fever is an inflammatory skin disease that occurs mainly in the fetlock of horses. It is a particularly persistent challenge during the damp winter months. Wet, dirty conditions and inadequate care can damage the sensitive skin of the fetlock, leading to inflammation and infection. Correct posture, care and treatment play a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of mud fever.

Causes of mud fever: dampness and lack of care

Mud fever is often caused by a combination of a damp surface, dirty stalls and inadequate care of the fetlock. Wet bedding or muddy runs can soften the skin, making it more susceptible to injury and infection. Horses that are regularly hosed down without their fetlocks being thoroughly dried are at increased risk. Allergic reactions to bedding or feed can also irritate the skin and promote the development of mud fever.

Typical symptoms of mud fever

In the early stages, the disease often manifests itself as a slight reddening of the skin in the fetlock. If the condition is not treated, wounds, scabs and crusts can form. The affected areas are painful and the leg can swell. In severe cases, the inflammation can spread and lead to phlegmon (injection). Horses with thick fetlocks and light-coloured fur are particularly at risk, as their skin is more sensitive.

Prevention of mud fever: proper care is crucial

The most important measure for preventing mud fever is a clean, dry environment. Horses should not be kept standing on muddy or wet ground for long periods of time, and the fetlock joints must always be thoroughly dried after washing. Horses with thick fetlock hair should be groomed regularly to prevent dirt and moisture. It is important to keep the hair in the fetlock joint short without unnecessarily irritating the skin.

Treatment of mud fever: what to do if you notice the first signs?

If mud fever occurs, immediate treatment is required. The affected areas should be cleaned with mild care products to gently remove scabs and crusts. After cleaning, it is recommended to treat the skin with special care products such as Fuderex, which has both a caring and healing effect. A low-protein diet can also support the healing process, as a high-protein diet can intensify the inflammatory process.

Tipps zur Vorbeugung und Behandlung von Mauke

Consistent care and early treatment can help to successfully prevent or quickly cure foot rot. With the right measures, the fetlock joints remain healthy and resistant to external influences.

FUDEREX CREAM

Cream to protect the fetlock. With zinc oxide, lanolin and sulphur.

MEHR INFORMATIONEN BENÖTIGT?

Weitere passende Artikel

WIR BERATEN SIE GERNE

Kontakt mit uns aufnehmen

Unser engagiertes Team von Experten steht Ihnen jederzeit zur Verfügung, um Ihre Anliegen zu klären und Ihnen umfassende Unterstützung zu bieten.

Egal, ob Sie mehr über unsere Produkte erfahren möchten, spezielle Beratung benötigen oder Anregungen haben – wir sind für Sie da. Zögern Sie nicht, uns zu kontaktieren. Ihre Zufriedenheit liegt uns am Herzen, und wir freuen uns darauf, von Ihnen zu hören!