MUD fever, which is often referred to as cracked heels or mud rash, is a common but painful condition found on horses’ legs, where the skin becomes inflamed and scabby. Sometimes the leg may ooze a yellowish fluid and the pastern, coronet and heels of the foot may become cracked.

Mud fever is typically found in the back legs of horses, though any leg can be affected. White legs (pink skinned) are more prone to mud fever than darker coloured legs. In severe cases, the horses’ leg can swell and cause lameness.

What causes mud fever?

There are many causes of mud fever, the most common being exposure to damp conditions for a prolonged period of time, for example, standing in soiled bedding or in deep mud. Frequent washing of your horse’s legs without fully drying them afterwards can also cause cracked heels. These wet conditions give bacteria a perfect environment to grow in.

If your horse’s skin is generally unhealthy this can also result in the development of mud fever, often due to a poor immune system or some other underlying issue. Horses with very hairy legs can be rather prone to mud fever as their legs tend to be washed more frequently. It is also very difficult to get the heels completely dry after washing. Mud can become trapped in the horse’s hair more easily.

Prevention

Here are some steps you can take to reduce the chance of your horse developing mud fever:

  • In an ideal world, you could avoid exposing your horse to wet muddy conditions by stabling on wet days or putting down wood chip or mats in your field in particularly muddy areas (gateways especially). Easier said than done in Ireland.
  • If your horse is stabled, keep bedding clean and dry by regular and thorough mucking out. Keep feathers short to avoid the accumulation of mud. This will also improve your visibility and make it easier to keep an eye on your horse’s skin.
  • If your horse lives out, try to take them in regularly to allow their legs to dry so you can then brush any dried mud off to avoid build-up. Another option is to hose down your horse’s legs to get rid of any mud then dry thoroughly with a towel. Pay particular attention to the heels of your horse.
  • If feeding your horse hard feed or hay outside, try to avoid feeding in the same place each day. This will prevent the field from becoming very cut up and muddy in one area.
  • Fence off particularly wet areas of the field. If bandaging or putting on boots, make sure the legs are clean and dry first.
  • Barrier creams (petroleum jelly is simple and cost effective) can be used before turn-out or exercise.
  • Mud fever boots are also available and can be a good job.
  • Nutritional supplements to promote healthy skin (for example, cod liver oil or seaweed) can be used to help improve your horse’s skin.

    • The most important measure is to be attentive. Keep a very close eye on your horse’s heels. The sooner you spot the signs of mud fever, the quicker you can treat the problem and avoid a lengthy recovery.

    Treatment

    There are many different tips and tricks for treating mud fever and they really depend on the severity of the case. The scabs can be softened and removed carefully and gently using warm water and a clean sponge. Gently remove the scabs in a downward motion to avoid pulling against your horse’s hair. Once the scabs are removed, wash the area with a small amount of medicated shampoo or veterinary cleanser. Rinse and dry well.

    Once this is done, there are many topical creams and products on the market to treat the skin. Soothing anti-bacterial and anti-fungal creams are key. If turning out remember to apply a barrier cream.

    In severe cases, your horse may need systemic antibiotics. In this situation you will need to consult your vet.