The bacteria Dermatophilus Congolensis which causes Rain Rot and Mud Fever.
In New Zealand we have had heavy rain fall for the last couple of weeks. Flooded and muddy paddocks are the result and kind of an invitation for Mud Fever and Rain Rot, if you do not have the option to stable your horse or keep it on dry ground.
Mud Fever and Rain Rot is technically known as dermatophilosis, this condition is often mistakenly believed to be caused by a fungus, but is actually caused by a bacterial infection.
It can happen when there is wetness, high humidity or even by biting insects such as flies.
Biting flies can also aid in the initial infection as well as spreading it. Furthermore it is important to disinfect grooming supplies and not to share tack between horses.
Rain rot and Mud Fever are most often seen in horses with a weak immune system (from improper nutrition, old age and Cushing Disease also known as PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction).
It is quite easy to identify Rain Rot and Mud Fever because of the peeling skin lesions which scab over and often leaving bald spots once they come off. If you are unsure it is always good to contact a professional Equine Naturophath or Veterinarian.
How to treat Rain Rot and Mud Fever
It can actually clear up on its own if the weather improves, but if you would like to help and fasten your horse’s recovery, using an iodine-based or herbal shampoo (in early stages a tea tree oil based shampoo or soap) can be helpful.
There are also some essential oils which may help such as Frankincense, Myrrh, Patchouli, Yarrow, Chamomile, Lavender and as mentioned earlier Tea Tree Oil. Please make sure to dilute the pure essential oil with cold- pressed olive oil or aloe vera gel.
You can also add some helpful herbs to your horses feed. Herbs like Chickweed, Nettle, Red Clover, Licorice, Echinacea, Fenugreek and Dandelion will strengthen your horses immune system and help to recover.
Supporting your horse with the right nutrition is one of the best ways to prevent Rain Rot and Mud Fever. Minerals and especially copper and sulfur can strengthen your horses immune system and help it to pass through ruff weather conditions.