Wet ... rain ... rainscald !

I can't believe this weather we have been having in the past few weeks.  Rain, rain and more rain.  This has been the type of weather when horses can get rainscald  ..... it is supposed to be summer so horses are not usually wearing rugs and they have their thinner summer coats.  There is less grease and less protection with most horse's summer coats, so I thought I would take the opportunity to re-post this blog from 2016.

What is Rainscald
Rainscald is a skin irritation which some horses develop when exposed to the environment.  It is caused by the same organism which causes mud fever.  

Signs
The hair on the horses back and croup becomes matted and an inflammatory liquid oozes from the skin.  The hair may fall out in clumps and often leaves a raw, bleeding surface.


Causes
Long periods of rain causing an irritation of the skin - usually on the back and croup because these areas are flat and take most of the rain when it falls.

Diagnosis
Scabs are taken and observed through a microscope to identify the bacteria. 



Treatment
Rainscald will heal on its own, however, future prevention is advisable.  In the worst cases treatment involves gently removing the loose hair.  The area should then be washed with a mild shampoo and warm water.  This will help soften the scabs and some may lift away.  The horse should then be dried thoroughly.  

Once the coat is dry the horse can be gently brushed with a soft body brush.  Finally, apply an appropriate cream to any exposed skin - this will help keep it moist and supple.  Massage this into the area which will also help stimulate the horses circulation.

As with mud fever this will need reapplying regularly.  As scabs become loose they can be removed being careful not to make the area bleed.  Once the scabs have gone the hair will be able to regrow.


Prevention
Protection from the elements.  A stable or field shelter for the worst weather, for some horses a turnout rug will be necessary.  

Look out for my June vlog - later today.  Have you seen my last video  'One May Day'   on my You Tube channel? Horse Life and Love. Please check it out and SUBSCRIBE.

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Until next time!

Jo