A Guide to Soothing Skin Irritations in Horses

They are caused by a host of things and in many cases, cuts and scrapes can be infected leading to serious skin irritations. To handle this problem, it is good for every horse person to learn about the various skin irritations and how to tackle them effectively. Some irritations are caused by pests while others are from allergic reactions. Others are caused by exposure to the sun and even poor horse management practices. The following information highlights the most common equine skin irritations and everything you need to know. Ultimately, equines can enjoy optimal skin health.

1. Sunburn

Sunburn or photo-sensitivity is obviously caused by UV rays. Just like in humans, equines need enough sun protection; otherwise, they develop peels, crusts and burns on the skin after excessive exposure to sunlight. Horses that have sensitive pink areas are more likely to suffer from this skin irritation. Photo-sensitivity is also triggered by eating certain plants and even contact with chemical toxins. One of the most notorious plants is St. John's wort. Antibiotics are other catalysts of photo-sensitivity in equines. Preventing this problem is the best thing to do. Exposure to sunlight in horses should be limited. Provide good shade for your equines as well. UV protective gear will go a long way.

If your equine friend has already developed sunburns, there are great treatment options. Natural remedies include aloe creams and oatmeal products. In some severe cases, a topical steroid will be recommended. Make sure to consult an equine veterinarian for the best treatment advice. Keep in mind that UV exposure over time can lead to the development of skin cancer. Taking action early for treatment and prevention cannot be overemphasized.

2. Sweet Itch

This skin irritation is as a result of bites from midges. It is actually and allergic reaction that causes an array of symptoms. Your horse will become extremely itchy with a lot of swelling on the affected areas. Equine itching can be vigorous and this has a ripple effect on the skin. From bleeding to crusting; the skin is broken and this leads to bald patches. The most common target areas for these bites are the mane, tail and the belly. Midges are mostly common during spring and summer months. To prevent this problem, you have to put in place a midge control plan. One way is to use pest repellents on horses. Protective gear such as fly sheets can also help.

For equines that already have sweet itch, treatment options include topical treatment and oral supplements. Vitamin B3 treatments work well to reduce itching. Your vet may recommend the use of corticosteroids in severe cases. With a good prevention plan in place, treatment should be effective. If this condition is not treated properly, your horse will suffer and this can affect their temperament and overall behavior.

3. Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects equines a lot. This condition is caused by zoonotic fungus known as dermatophytes. This fungus can be found on the skin of animals and in the soil. The most notable signs of ringworm is a round whitish ring on the skin. Many times, there will be many lesions that form something that resembles a map. This condition is more common in colts or young horses. Equine health experts believe that this is due to a compromised immune system in young growing horses. This skin irritation is highly contagious. Therefore, make sure to keep the affected horse quarantined. Sharing of grooming tools should be avoided. A ringworm spore can live up to three years making it very hard to fully contain the problem.

Treating ringworm is best done using anti-fungal shampoo. Washing the affected areas every single day is a sure way to manage this problem. The skin irritation may take up to four weeks or more to fully heal. All in all, all the barn equipment must be disinfected accordingly to reduce the outbreak of the same. The stronger the immunity of a horse, the better they will fight this skin irritation. Therefore, check on diet and supplements and keep your horse as strong as can be.

4. Rain Rot

This is a bacterial skin infection that it triggered by wet, humid or damp conditions on the skin. External biting pests can transmit this condition to a herd. Rain rot is not just a disease suffered by equines but it affects goats, cows and sheep as well. Also, humans can be affected by this skin condition. To that end, there is great need to prevent and treat this skin condition. Top symptoms of this skin problem include swelling on the skin or coat. Then, the skin becomes flaky as scabs form. This problem is very itchy for horses and leads to great discomfort. The best prevention measures include controlling pests and keeping horse's skin clean and dry. Avoid sharing of grooming tools or equipment to contain the infection.

Treating this problem can be done with antibacterial agents. Home solutions work well and washing the areas affected regularly with an antibacterial soap will clear the problem. Some vets will recommend benzyl peroxide treatment or other medications. In many cases, rain rot clears up on it own without any intervention. However, to avoid spreading of the infection to other horses, treating early is important.

5. Mange

This is a skin infection caused by mites. Top symptoms include itchiness, hair loss and even crusting. The signs are similar to mud fever and rain rot. The main difference with mange is that it is a fall and winter infection. Heavier horses are more affected because they provide a better hiding place for mites. Some horses may host mites and not suffer from skin irritation. The best measure of prevention is to treat all horses in the herd for mites. This will contain the spread of the problem. There are both topical and oral treatments available for horses that suffer with mange. For natural equine care products that soothe skin irritations, check out Equi-Spa.