Mange in Horses: How to Treat & Soothe Irritated Skin

Mange in Horses: Types, Treatment & Skin Recovery

Learn how to recognize and manage mange in horses using naturally derived solutions like Rapid Relief Restorative Cream.

Skin & coat care Recovery routines Updated: {{ 'now' | date: '%Y-%m-%d' }}

Read this if your horse is itching, rubbing, or losing hair fast

Mange can look like “just allergies” until the skin starts breaking down. The win is a calm plan: confirm mites with your vet, treat the cause, then keep the skin clean, dry, and supported while it rebuilds.

Start with diagnosis, then run a simple routine that keeps skin calm while treatment does its job.

Mange is a skin disease caused by parasitic mites. It can result in intense itching, hair loss, and skin damage, making life miserable for both horse and rider. While rare in well-managed barns, mange still occurs and needs prompt care.

Types of Mange in Horses

There are three main types of mange in horses, each caused by a different mite species:

  • Sarcoptic mange - Causes severe itching and crusting, often starting on the head and neck.
  • Chorioptic mange - Typically affects the legs, especially in feathered breeds like drafts.
  • Psoroptic mange - Affects manes, tails, and back with scabs and thick crusts.

Signs of Mange

  • Intense itching and rubbing
  • Hair loss in patches
  • Crusty or thickened skin
  • Raw, inflamed areas from scratching
  • Irritability or sensitivity to touch

Treatment Options

Mange requires a combination of veterinary diagnosis, mite-killing treatment, and soothing skin care. While antiparasitic meds handle the mites, topicals like Rapid Relief Restorative Cream help calm the skin and support recovery while the underlying issue is treated.

Rapid Relief Restorative Cream is formulated with calendula, chamomile, and vitamin E to support the skin barrier during and after treatment.

How to Apply

After treating for mites with guidance from your vet, clean affected areas and let the coat dry fully. Apply a thin layer of Rapid Relief Restorative Cream 1 to 2 times daily. Continue until the skin looks settled and fully recovered.

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Preventing Mange Outbreaks

  • Disinfect grooming tools and tack regularly
  • Quarantine new horses on arrival
  • Address early signs of itching or scabbing promptly
  • Keep bedding clean and dry

Where to Go Next

If you want a clean path without guessing, start here:

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