Mud Fever

[Maci]

I don't know much about mud fever, and I'm still learning from my instructor and those more experienced, and I just want to clear this question up once and for all!

Q: Now that it's been raining non-stop, it's really muddy and wet in the barn (the perfect conditions for mud fever, that I know)! Anyways, what are some sign's to look out for? I know the basis, but what do you look for in the early stages? Everything looks fine presently (even my experienced instructor said so, too), but I just want to have that knowledge in my "memory bank" incase it needs to be recalled sometime in the future.

Thanks For Any Replies!
Maci :)

[Carly]

The heels seem to look and feel a bit greasey and some people do call it greasey heel anyway! the horse might start to feel a bit tender around the area and then you can see a small area of broken skin that looks scabby and flakey then that small area if left untreated grows rapidly into a large area,i treat mine by applying generous amounts of suda cream which is nappy rash cream for babies around twice a week to prevent mud fever and every day if mud fever has already started.

[Showjumper]

I agree with Carly's description of the symptoms but i've never heard of using nappy rash cream. I always use vaseline as it acts as a waterproof barrier to stop infection getting in. Hibiscrub is great for getting rid of mud fever. It's disgusting stuff (in my opinion). You lather it over the mud fever (it also works for rain scald and other icky things) and it cleans it up nicely and softens the scabs. The Vaseline goes on after you've dried the heels to keep it clean.

[Maci]

Thank you for clearing it up for me! I will be on the lookout for any signs!

Maci :)