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What is Mud Fever?
The winter months can be miserable when wet and muddy
conditions prevail so if Mud Fever becomes an issue as well it can be just
one thing too much!
Mud Fever is the name given to a common skin complaint
that affects many horses and ponies during winter and early spring when the
wet weather makes the ground muddy. It will affect horses of all breeds,
ages and colours although those with white socks or legs and pink skin are
more prone to the condition. Mud Fever thrives in wet and muddy conditions.
It is caused by an infection of the skin by the
bacteria Dermatophilus Congolensis. The bacteria live in the mud and can
get into a horses skin through even the tiniest nick. Under normal
circumstances the skin acts as a protective barrier, preventing the
bacterium from entering the horse's system and doing any damage. However,
the integrity of the epidermis can become compromised through the abrasion
of soil grit on cold, wet skin. The continual wetting of the skin causes a
breakdown of the protective barrier of the epidermis, allowing the bacterium
to enter and do its worst. Painful sores and scabs, which in severe cases
can make a horse lame, affect the pastern and heel area but can also affect
the upper leg, the belly, and in some severe cases even the neck area.
As with any bacterial infection, Mud Fever can become a
very serious condition very quickly. The legs can become swollen and sore
and open sores can become quickly infected. It can, in severe cases, lead
to further infection which may lead to lameness and loss of well being.
Look out for patches of hair containing crusty scabs
and moist lesions beneath the scabs. There is sometimes a creamy colour
discharge coming from under the scabs. Once the scabs are removed the skin
underneath looks raw and inflamed. There is often heat in the area along
with swelling and sensitivity and, sometimes, lameness too.
Prevention
Keep your horses legs as dry as possible - avoid hosing
down the horse's legs if possible but if you do need to then ensure that you
dry them properly every time. It is generally better to allow the mud to dry
and then gently brush off with a soft bristled brush. If you must use a
hose, gently dry the horse's legs with a soft, clean, dry towel.
As soon as the paddocks start to become wet and muddy
take preventive action. If possible, rotate your paddocks to avoid horses
having to stand in wet, muddy ground. Use electric fencing to prevent horses
from standing for long periods in the deep mud that collects in high traffic
areas and, if possible, put good quality hardcore in the gateway areas.
There are many products available to help protect the
skin from the constant wet by forming a barrier between the mud and the leg,
although many experienced owners still swear by a good quality nappy rash
cream such as 'Sudocrem'. However, barrier creams do have the drawback that
your horse's legs are still covered in mud when they come in from the field.
SPORTABAC TURNOUT SOCKS are a fantastic way of keeping your horse's legs
clean and dry and helping to prevent mud fever. These socks cover the lower
leg from just below the knee or hock right down to the coronet band and
closely fit the contours of the horses leg. Tailored to prevent twisting
and easy to fit the TURNOUT SOCKS help to keep your horse's legs warm, dry
and mud free to help prevent mud fever. In addition to this they also give
great protection against field injuries.
Treatment
If your horse contracts mud fever, keep him out of the
wet and mud. Clip the hair away from the infected area, rub an
anti-bacterial lotion onto the scabs to soften them and then gently remove
them. Once removed, liberally apply an anti-bacterial cream to the area and
make sure you keep the skin clean and dry. If symptoms don't improve or you
have any doubts consult with your Veterinary Surgeon. He or she will advise
you on the best course of action.
Note: Don’t use TURNOUT SOCKS until the condition has
cleared.
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