Introduction
Greasy heel, a common condition that affects horses’ skin, can cause severe pain and discomfort. Greasy heel is also known by the names dermatitis, mud fever and scratches. This is caused by fungal or bacterial agents getting trapped in the horse’s skin folds. It can be very difficult to treat or prevent a greasy heel. However, there are steps that you can take to protect your horse. We will discuss how to treat and prevent greasy heels in horses.
What is Greasy Heel?
Greasy heel refers to an infection of the skin of the lower legs of horses by bacteria or fungi. Most cases of infection are caused by Staphylococcus Aureus, which is a common type of bacteria found in the environment. Greasy heel can be found in the lower leg folds of horses, which can trap it and lead to infection. It can cause the skin to become reddened, swollen and inflamed. This can make it painful for horses. Sometimes, the infection may spread to other parts of the horse’s body and can be very difficult to treat.
Greasy Heel: Common Causes
A combination of factors can lead to a greasy heel, such as poor hygiene, wet or muddy conditions and insect bites. Horses who are kept in wet or muddy conditions are more likely to develop the condition. The bacteria can get trapped in their skin folds on the lower legs. Horses that have been bitten by insects can develop skin irritation. Bad hygiene can lead to a greasy heel. Dirt and bacteria can get trapped in the skin folds.
Greasy Heel: Signs and Symptoms
Red and inflamed skin and hair loss are all signs and symptoms of a greasy heel. The horse may feel tender and itchy to touch the affected area. The infection can spread to other areas of the horse’s body and become very difficult to treat if it is not treated.
How to Prevent Greasy Heel
Good hygiene and keeping your horse dry and clean is the best way to prevent a greasy heel. After being exposed to water and mud, it is essential to clean and dry your horse’s lower legs regularly. Also, you should inspect your horse’s legs for signs of skin irritation and infection. If necessary, take action to correct the problem as soon as possible. You should also keep your horse’s stall dry and free from mud and debris.
Use a barrier cream
A barrier cream may also help prevent a greasy heel. Barrier creams protect the skin from infection, and lower the chance of fungal and bacterial infections. These creams should be applied to the affected areas before they are exposed to water or mud.
Protective Boots
Protective boots are also a good option to avoid a greasy heel. Protective boots can be used to protect the skin from wet or muddy conditions. This reduces the chance of infection. After use, these boots should be applied to horses’ lower legs to prevent them from being exposed to wet or muddy conditions.
How to treat greasy heel
It is crucial to immediately treat a horse with a greasy heel. To treat the condition, you must first thoroughly clean and dry it. Use mild soap and warm water to wash the affected area. Dry it with a clean towel. To treat the infection, you can apply a topical antibiotic cream to the area.
Use medicated shampoos
A medicated shampoo may also be beneficial in the treatment of greasy heels. These shampoos can be used to reduce inflammation and treat the infection. When using medicated shampoos it is important that you follow all instructions. They can be very strong and irritating to your skin.
Using Antifungal Creams
You can also use antifungal creams to treat a greasy heel. These creams can be used directly on the affected area to treat fungal infections. When using these creams, it is important that you follow all instructions.