Mud fever in horses is a common skin problem, particularly in autumn and winter when the ground is wet and muddy.
\nHorses with white legs or lots of white markings, such as Tinkers, Friesians and Shires, are often particularly prone to mud fever and thrush.
\nIt may look unsightly and cause discomfort, but with the right care, there\u2019s a lot you can do to keep your skin healthy and supple.<\/p>\n
In this blog, you\u2019ll find out exactly what mud fever is, how to recognise it, and get tips on how to care for legs prone to mud fever and scabs.<\/p>\n
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Mok is a collective term for skin irritations in the pastern area of a horse.
It often occurs during wet spells when the skin remains damp for long periods due to rain and mud.
Factors contributing to mottling or streaking:<\/p>\n
Legs that have been wet and dirty for a long time<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Muddy paddocks or meadows<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Sensitive skin (e.g. pale legs)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Reduced resistance<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Lots of wallpaper or socks, where moisture and dirt can easily get trapped<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\nMok is\u00a0not a disease in itself<\/strong>, but a sign that the skin\u00a0extra care<\/strong>\u00a0needs.<\/span>
If the affected areas are severe or are getting worse quickly, it is always advisable to consult a vet.<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/blockquote>\n
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Recognising mould and mildew<\/span><\/h2>\n
Common signs in horses prone to mud fever or thrush are:<\/p>\n
Redness and irritation in the shin cavity
\nScabs or flakes
\nBald patches
\nThe horse pulls its leg away when touched
\nIn some cases, swelling or tenderness
\nThe sooner you notice this, the sooner you can start using gentle skincare products and providing better protection against moisture.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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Care for legs prone to varicose veins<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
The most important thing about a mug is\u00a0drought and hygiene<\/strong>:<\/p>\n
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Gently rinse the mud off with lukewarm water and pat the legs dry\u00a0thoroughly dry<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Make sure the stable and paddock remain as dry as possible.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Brush the socks and wallpaper regularly to remove dirt.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Use a\u00a0gentle, nourishing oil or balm<\/strong>\u00a0to keep the skin supple and protect it from moisture.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\ud83d\udca1\u00a0Extra tip:<\/strong>\u00a0For horses with a lot of mud flaps, it can help to wash them regularly with a gentle shampoo and then dry them thoroughly.<\/p>\n
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Support from within<\/span><\/h2>\n
As well as external care, it can be worthwhile to consider your horse\u2019s overall resilience and skin condition.
\nA balanced diet, possibly supplemented with herbs that support the skin and the immune system, can help to maintain a strong, healthy skin barrier.<\/p>\nAt Paardenkriebels, you\u2019ll find only individually packaged herbs.
\nThe customer mixes this themselves, so you always know exactly what your horse is getting.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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Prevention is better than cure<\/span><\/h2>\n
Preventing muzzle rot is often easier than treating the skin.<\/p>\n
Keep your legs clean and dry.
\nAvoid spending long periods in muddy paddocks.
\nCheck your skin regularly, especially during wet seasons.
\nStart providing extra care early on if you know your horse is sensitive.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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Mould and scabs can be persistent, but with early detection and the right care, you can prevent a great deal of discomfort for your horse.
\nWould you like to know which natural products are suitable for your horse?
\n\ud83d\udcf2 Feel free to get in touch via WhatsApp with no obligation, or browse our range at Paardenkriebels.nl<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
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