What is rain rot and where do I see it?

Rain rot (dermatophilosis) is a bacterial skin condition often seen on the topline, neck, and rump in wet/humid weather. You’ll notice scabby, tufted hair that lifts off with crusts.

Is mud fever fungal or bacterial?

Pastern dermatitis (“mud fever” or “scratches”) can be mixed—bacterial, fungal, and moisture/irritant factors together. Management focuses on dryness, gentle cleaning, and routine care per your veterinarian.

Thrush is commonly associated with anaerobic bacteria in the frog sulci (often Fusobacterium necrophorum) and wet, dirty footing. It has a foul odor and dark discharge—daily picking and a clean environment are key.

When should I call my veterinarian?

If lesions are widespread or painful, lameness develops, discharge worsens, or your horse isn’t improving with routine care, contact your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment guidance.

Protect Your Horse from Fungal Conditions: Tips for Preventing and Treating Rain Rot, Mud Fever, and Thrush

April 9, 2023

Care Guide

Rain Rot, Mud Fever & Thrush—Straight Talk for Real Barns

Know the early signs, control the environment, and keep routines simple and consistent.

Wet seasons and messy footing can set the stage for skin and hoof trouble. Catching issues early—and staying steady with cleaning and turnout habits—keeps horses comfortable and riding ready.

1) Rain Rot (Dermatophilosis)

What it looks like: Scabby, crusty lesions that pull out with little clumps of hair—often along the back, neck, and rump in humid/wet stretches.

Barn-smart habits

Keep the coat clean and dry; curry and towel after rain when possible.
Improve airflow: shed sheets off when it’s warm/dry; avoid long damp under tack.
Use clean grooming tools; don’t share brushes on active lesions.

2) Mud Fever / Scratches (Pastern Dermatitis)

What it looks like: Scabs, crusting, and skin irritation on the lower limbs, often from prolonged wet/mud plus minor skin nicks. Can involve bacteria, fungi, and irritant factors together.

Barn-smart habits

Prioritize dry footing: rotate turnout, add screenings, use mud grids where feasible.
Rinse off mud, then pat dry; don’t leave legs damp under boots/wraps.
Clip long feather lightly for faster drying (if appropriate for your horse).

3) Thrush (Frog/Sulci)

What it looks like: Foul odor, dark discharge in the frog grooves, soft/crumbly tissue. Often tied to wet, dirty footing and infrequent picking.

Barn-smart habits

Pick hooves daily; focus on deep sulci and the central groove.
Keep stalls/paddocks dry; refresh high-traffic areas.
Work with your farrier on trim balance and frog support.

Vet-first: If your horse is sore, lesions are spreading, or a foul discharge persists, call your veterinarian for a diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your horse.