Equine Rain Rot

Since we are well into the lower Alabama rainy season it seems a good time to review the equine skin condition known as “rain rot” or “rain scald”. It is properly termed Dermatophilosis, and is a bacterial infection by a specific bacteria that normally resides on the horse’s skin.

When the skin is healthy and intact it causes no problem, but when skin stays wet for long periods of time (the southern summers), its natural defenses break down and the bacteria migrates deeper into it (instead of living on it). It’s not only rain that can be a problem, but high humidity, and heat causing the animal to sweat most of the day, can be just as big a factor.

Biting insects can help spread the active bacteria to nearby horses. Rain rot is not typically itchy, but it can be painful enough to prohibit riding.

Several management ideas than can keep your horse’s skin healthy include:

1. Stall the horse under fans during the heat of the day or during rain
2. Rinse sweat off after work, and shampoo when he needs it
3. Learn the proper way to groom and do it daily. Many horses rarely are groomed – they just get a quick knock the dirt off before being ridden.
4. Add electrolytes to feed to encourage water intake – many horses are chronically slightly dehydrated, and skin and hair coat always suffers.
5. There are some excellent supplements on the market aimed at adding oils helpful to the skin. The dac oil and dac bloom are great.
6. It takes good quality feed to make a good quality body. Don’t feed the cheap stuff.

Once your horse has rain rot, what can be done? Most cases can heal on their own, but depending on how severe the infection is, you may need antibiotics, medicated shampoos or rinses, anti-inflammatory medications, and appropriate management changes.

Most all cases need a good sudsy shampoo with a gentle curry to remove loose scabs. Remember also that sharing grooming tools and tack can transfer the bacteria to other horses. Rain rot can be a big problem if it is not treated early, but careful observation and good horse hygiene practices can prevent your horse from being a victim.