Equine Skin Conditions: From Rain Scald to Ringworm
Noticed your horse scratching more than usual? Or perhaps they've developed patchy hair loss or scabby areas that don’t seem to heal? Skin conditions are common in horses in the UK, especially in damp or humid conditions, but many look deceptively similar. We help owners navigate these often confusing symptoms to identify and treat the real cause. Common Culprits Rain scald is frequently seen during wet weather, presenting as scabby, sore patches along the horse’s back and rump. In contrast, mud fever, which affects the lower limbs, causes scabbing and inflammation, particularly in horses turned out on muddy ground. Fungal infections such as ringworm are highly contagious and often cause circular areas of hair loss with crusty skin. Meanwhile, lice and mites can lead to intense itching and rubbing, resulting in bald spots and secondary skin trauma. Diagnosis and Treatment Because these conditions can appear so alike, accurate diagnosis is key. Lingfield Equine Vets use a combinatio...