Mud Fever in Horses: Treat, Heal, and Protect

Mud Fever in Horses: Healing and Protecting in Rainy Season

When the rainy season arrives, lush pastures may grow—but the threat of mud fever in horses does too. Also called pastern dermatitis or “greasy heel"- this skin condition thrives in wet, muddy environments and can manifest as painful redness, scabbing, swelling, and even lameness. Prolonged dampness softens the skin, allowing bacteria, fungi, and mites to penetrate—especially through microscopic cracks or abrasions.

Veterinary programs such as UC Davis describe pastern dermatitis as a complex, multifactorial condition, where inflammation of the skin can stem from infections, moisture, mites, or even sensitivities—and progresses rapidly without intervention. They emphasize that early diagnosis and prevention are key to recovery and avoiding chronic damage.

Similarly, the Liphook Equine Hospital states that the biggest risk factor is persistent wetting of the skin. Effective treatment requires breaking the inflammation cycle—through cleanliness, drying, and carefully selected topical applications—while avoiding overuse of irritating products.

Healing Mud Fever with ExcelRescue™ Healing Wound Salve

When mud fever flares, targeted healing is essential. ExcelRescue™ Healing Wound Salve delivers that relief with a blend designed for action and protection:

Antimicrobial & Soothing: Camelina oil, avocado oil, honey, and vitamin E help fight infection and accelerate skin repair.
Barrier Formation: Beeswax creates a breathable seal that wards off further moisture and contaminants.

How to apply:

Gently clean the area with a mild, antibacterial wash—avoid aggressive scrubbing.
Thoroughly dry the skin.
Apply a thin, even layer of the salve to affected areas.
Repeat daily until fully healed.

By combining healing and prevention in one, ExcelRescue™ helps disrupt the cycle of repeat flare-ups.

Rainy Season and Hoof Health: A Related Concern

While mud fever targets the skin of the lower legs, the rainy season can be equally hard on your horse’s hooves. Prolonged exposure to wet, muddy conditions can soften the hoof wall, weaken its structure, and increase the risk of cracks, chipping, and bacterial issues.

ExcelShine™ Hoof Oil and ExcelRescue™ Hoof Support are key allies in maintaining hoof strength and integrity in damp weather:

ExcelShine™ Hoof Oil — Ideal for healthy, well-maintained hooves, this blend of Camelina oil and antioxidants deeply nourishes while creating a moisture-repellent barrier. It’s perfect for daily use before turnout in wet conditions to maintain balance and prevent excess water absorption.
ExcelRescue™ Hoof Support — Best for hooves showing signs of stress or dryness, this richer, beeswax-infused formula strengthens and restores while providing a more robust barrier against moisture. It’s a great choice for horses who’ve been in muddy conditions for extended periods.

For more tips on protecting your horse’s hooves during wet months, read our full blog: Healthy Hooves: No Hoof, No Horse.

Wet Weather Care at a Glance

Mud fever present? Treat with ExcelRescue™ Healing Wound Salve after cleaning and drying the skin.
Healthy hooves? Maintain with ExcelShine™ Hoof Oil for daily nourishment and moisture protection.
Hooves under stress? Fortify with ExcelRescue™ Hoof Support for added strength and conditioning.
Management matters—rotate turnout areas, improve drainage, and keep legs and hooves dry whenever possible.