The Skinny On Skin Conditions Of Horses

Horses get about as many wacky skin conditions as we humans do. The weather plays a significant role in horse skin conditions. Other contributing factors include the various insects that are constantly swarming around horses. Other possible causes for skin problems include a weakened immune system and overall neglect.

The cold winter climate is a haven for bacteria to breed on a horse's skin, leading to all kinds of possible skin conditions. How do you know if your horse is suffering from a skin condition? Here are some clues.

If your horse seems to be itchy, this can be a sign of many things. Itching can come from allergies caused by the saliva of insects. Itching may be evident on the shoulders, withers, back, tail and the hindquarters. The use of oral corticosteroid can often help alleviate this kind of itching.

Lice bites are a common cause of extreme itchiness. Look for the presence of heavy dandruff and bald spots. You will wan to dust or wash (with an insecticidal preparation) your horse. Make sure to clean all of your horse’s environs as well. Avoid skin problems in the winter through diligent grooming and cleaning.

Another common skin problem found among horses is rain rot. This is often referred to as rain scald or streptothricosis. This skin problem develops in a warm, damp and high humidity environment where organisms thrive. Rain rot often manifests itself as large and crusty scabs. Rain rot is often hidden beneath matted tussocks of hair. Upon initial removal, scabs may be pink with puss. They can easily turn gray as they dry and heal. Treat rain rot by washing your horse with antibacterial shampoos and rinses. Make sure to keep your horse in a dry and well-ventilated environment. You will also want to keep your horse away from other horses that may suffer from rain rot. Make sure to remove all scabs that are present and to apply a topical ointment obtained from your veterinarian.

Skin diseases often manifest themselves in patterns. Let’s say that you have just washed the saddle pad and there becomes visible an irritant on the horse in that area This will give you a good clue as to what kind of skin problem you might be dealing with. If the skin appears red on the underbelly and hindquarters, this can strongly point to insects or contact with plants. If the skin is itchy or irritating, you will observe horses spending a majority of their free time finding a scratching post to alleviate the irritation or biting themselves. Pay close attention to these various symptoms to gain an understanding of what kind of skin condition you are dealing with.

Queensland itch is another common horse skin condition that can usually be found on horses with sensitive skin and metabolic stress. These can often be a sign that the horse is having a difficulty breaking down a chemical substance that may be occurring in the feed or supplements. Another cause of Queensland itch could insect bites, mites or fungal infestation. The best way to treat this skin condition is with healing agents, immune boosters and antifungal and bacterial agents that are applied to the infested sections. If your horse does not show signs of improvement, you will want to pay another visit to the vet.

During the winter season, your horse may also suffer from a mud rash. This rash can affect your horse's backs or legs and can be severe enough to cause significant lameness. The source of this skin condition is a bacterium that thrives in warm and moist environments, growing at the base of the hairs. Treatment calls for a change in the environment of your horse. Control your environment so that the moisture cannot be trapped near the surface of the skin. Make sure to clip the area that is affected and apply topical ointments. It is best to consult with your veterinarian in order to find the right treatment for your horse’s skin condition.

Mange is another common skin condition that can afflict your horse. If your horse is suffering from mange, make sure to contact your veterinarian. Symptoms can include itchiness and tearing of the skin surface due to excessive rubbing.