Mud fever is a skin condition on 1 or more (lower) legs. Furthermore, it can (especially in long-haired breeds) progress to, or be accompanied by, lymphangitis in which the entire leg becomes swollen and requires veterinary attention!
Undamaged skin is covered by normal "flora," meaning that under normal conditions, certain nonharmful bacteria are present. These bacteria are not harmful in the sense that as long as the skin is intact, these bacteria do not cause direct damage to the skin. However, when the skin is damaged, these bacteria can cross the natural skin barrier and cause mud fever. However, this damage does not necessarily have to be a large wound; a very small abrasion is sufficient.
Softening of the skin also leads to a poorer skin barrier. Because of the soft skin and "dirty" environment, bacteria penetrate easily and can cause (superficial or deep) skin infections. Mud is (unfortunately) the perfect environment for a condition like mud fever!
How can you prevent mug?
The most important thing to remember about mud fever (as with many other diseases) is that prevention is better than cure. And large, dry pastures are of course the very best in the fight against mug. Unfortunately, that is not always possible and then we have to look at other solutions (too).
For example, using mud guards so that you can prevent the skin of your horse's legs from becoming too soft, preventing bacteria from causing mud fever (or making it worse).
But there are also so-called "Quick Dry protectors" to allow wet horse legs to dry faster. Of course, a good ointment, such as Barrier Cream, MRS or zinc ointment, is also a must have in the stable pharmacy.
Find a selection of products that can help your horse prevent and treat mud fever here in Mud & Mud fever.
For example:
- Quick Dry Gamacher : for ekstra quick drying of wet horse legs!
- Mud Boots: to prevent wet legs!
- Barrier cream from Nathalie: to protect the fetlock against so much moisture!
- MRS Ointment: if your horse unfortunately already has mud fever!
- Light therapy: for faster healing of wounds!
Now we know that horse health comes from within, and that a well-functioning intestinal system helps strengthen your horse's immune system. So think preventively too, and strengthen the horse from within with a specific supplement!
Remember: This InfoBlog is based on our (the people behind Equinics) personal experience, both in terms of the problems, products, therapies and gadgets discussed, but also in terms of our equine experience in general. 😃 We would like to emphasize, that we believe you should always ask your veterinarian for advice, if your horse needs help.😊