What is Mud Fever?
Mud fever is caused by the bacterium, Dermatophilus Congolensis which lives in the soil and thrives in wet muddy conditions. If this bacteria penetrates the skin, either via a wound or just because the skin has softened in the wet, it can cause a nasty infection. What are the Symptoms? It is generally the lower legs that are affected, particularly the pastern area which is most exposed to the wet, however it can spread above the knees and hocks and even onto the belly in severe cases. The first signs of mud fever are normally small crusty scabs. They tend to be quite sore to touch, and can weep with local skin inflammation. If untreated, the scabs will quickly spread, and the whole of the lower leg may become inflamed. The area is generally very sensitive, and if left untreated will cause lameness. If the symptoms are ignored, it is likely that the horse will have to be stabled 24-7 and given veterinary treatment (usually antibiotics) until the skin has healed. The legs may also have t
