Mud fever, greasy heel and cracked heels are all problems experienced when horses and ponies are kept outside in wet, muddy conditions.In this article I will outline the underlying problem, symptoms and signs, and management of this illness.As the feet are continually exposed to the elements, the heels and the skin below the fetlocks become increasingly red and inflamed, and there may be a pus-stained discharge and crusting. Greasy heel and cracked heels can occur in winter or summer, and may be related to allergy.Mud fever occurs most often in the winter, and can affect the leg further up to the knee or hock. With mud fever the hair becomes matted, and the animal may become lame and unwell. The main culprit seems to be the organism Dermatophilus congolensis.Signs that your horse is suffering from mud fever include: inflamed skin, matted hair, crusting, lameness and discharge.Prevention is always the best treatment; so keep the animal’s legs dry and warm if possible; ensure they have access to a dry area; ensure bedding is dry, and reduce over-washing your horse’s legs; rotate paddocks and if possible gateways; cordon off the muddiest areas with electric fencing; disinfect equipment and stables every so […]

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