The bend of the fetlock is inflamed, oozing and covered with scabs – it is very likely that your horse has a case of mange. This is a bacterial skin inflammation, which can have very different causes. As a rule, a lack of nutrients due to unsuitable animal feed is the cause. We explain to you how to recognize a mallenders, what helps against it and what you can do to prevent it.
1. Maude is an infectious skin disease
Different skin diseases are referred to as mallenders, which require a
Inflammation at the pasterns of a horse have as a consequence. The cause is very different. Moisture in particular provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can trigger a mallenders. In all cases, treat a mallenders as soon as possible, otherwise it can develop into a chronic disease.
1.1. The disease has different causes
Moisture, mud and mud can be the cause of a mauke.
Especially in the cold season, when it is wet outside, mallenders occur more frequently. Horses with a strong coat also have an increased risk, because it gets dirty quickly, stays wet for a longer period of time and thus provides a good breeding ground for the bacteria. Basically, however, no horse breed is safe from mallenders. Especially in spring or autumn, when the animals have their coat change, the infection occurs more frequently.
Horses that live in an open stable are also affected more often, especially if they stand around a lot in the mud. Just Dirt can promote the spread of the mallenders – as well as excessive cleanliness with aggressive care products, whereby the skin is unnecessarily irritated.
If your horse is standing on a dry, clean ground and still gets a maudex, is sometimes a weakened immune system is the cause. Nutrient deficiencies and incorrect feeding are often reasons for it. For a strong immune system, you should rely on a natural feeding with high-quality horse feed and also note that depending on the age and breed of the horse, different requirements must be placed on the feed.
However, a weak immune system is not always due to nutrition. Lack of detoxification in the horse's body due to kidney problems also lead to a weak immune system. Attack the skin. Weaken the animal. Micro-injuries eventually open the way to bacterial infection.
1.2. These symptoms speak for a Mauke
The fetlock bend should be controlled regularly.
You can recognize a scurf in the early stages by a reddening of the skin in the area of the fetlock bend with bald patches appearing. A slight to painful swelling can also be observed quickly. If the pain increases, the horses start to lame when walking.
A clear infection is present if the skin at the corresponding site is already sore, itches intensely and blisters form. If these burst open, a foul-smelling secretion comes out. The The consequence is a weeping eczema, resulting in a greasy coating and bloody scab. The swollen skin is usually torn and heavily crusted. The symptoms can be very different. Are not always associated with leaking secretion. At the dry mallenders Are formed strong scales and crusty scabs, but not a weeping eczema.
2. The treatment must be adapted to the cause of the mallenders
Before you start messing around with your horse first of all call a veterinarian. The can determine what form of malleus it is and what therapy is most appropriate. Thus, in the case of mite or fungal infestation, an agent must also be applied to combat the cause.
Depending on the severity of the equine disease, the doctor will use an antibiotic to treat it. By a bacterial examination he can find out which medicine is the correct one.
2.1. Quick action and first aid are called for
Loosen crusts – yes or no?
There are divided opinions on whether or not the crust should be removed from the affected areas. Some advise to soften and carefully remove the scab after cleaning, so that the germs underneath can be treated better. Others think the scab serves to protect the wound and removing it would delay the healing process. In addition, the procedure can be very painful for the horse if you are not careful. It is best to ask the treated professional what he thinks is right.
If you notice symptoms of a mallenders on your horse, you should the animal should be placed in a dry and clean stable as soon as possible. Mildew is also contagious for other horses as well as for humans. This means:
– no muddy paddock – no damp paddock – muck out the box several times a day – isolated accommodation to avoid transmission – wash towels and other utensils hot or dispose of properly – avoid contact with mucous membranes and open wounds – use gloves when treating and cleaning
The most important thing is to keep the pastern as dry as possible until the inflammation is completely healed.
If your horse has a strong fetlock, it is a good idea to remove it carefully with scissors. If the wound is free of fur, you can gently wash and dry the area. Disinfection with Betaisodona or Rivanol helps to keep the open wound clean.
2.2. Zinc and ointments have proven to be effective
Clean and dry the affected area before treating it further.
In most cases it is very promising to treat a mallow with a zinc ointment. Zinc promotes wound healing, helps against itching and dries out the blisters quickly. Also, the ointment is water repellent. Straight at the beginning it is usually advisable to apply a bandage, to protect the wound and prevent the horse from scratching the area.
Sometimes a supplementary feeding of zinc can also be helpful. Especially when the animals are in the change of coat, they often have an increased need for nutrients.
Special mauke ointments are also available in specialized shops, containing oils and fats to protect and nourish the wound. Your veterinarian can tell you which mousing ointment is most suitable.
2.3. A bandage protects the wound. Keeps it dry.
Sauerkraut poultices in particular have proven to be good home remedies. The lactic acid contained in it removes the inflammation and helps in wound healing. Honey with its antiseptic effect is also a quick and easy way to give the horse some relief. Simply spread the honey on the cleaned area.
Propolis (bee resin) is even more suitable, which acts against fungi, viruses and bacteria. However, honey is easier to acquire, unless you know a beekeeper. You can also try an anti-inflammatory poultice with different herbs such as sage, thyme or chamomile. There are also positive experiences with the use of garlic and tea tree oil as well as Aloe Vera.
2.4. Homeopathic therapy of mallenders by an alternative practitioner
In homeopathy there are also numerous applications for the therapy of mallenders. In addition to the use of various globules, herbs and essential oils, here is usually a holistic approach in the foreground, Which also takes into account feeding, environmental influences and the horse's individual problems. Which is here the best remedy against Mauke, should be decided by an experienced veterinary practitioner.
Attention: An untreated mallenders can become chronic under certain circumstances. In addition to lameness, restricted movement and severe pain, blood poisoning is possible and can be fatal.
3. Preventive helps hygiene and the right feeding
A mud paddock should be avoided with susceptible horses.
The best prophylaxis is to Fetlocks dry and clean to keep. Particularly with susceptible horses, should be paid attention to a good hygiene. Avoid stressful situations, as these weaken the immune system. However, stable changes, a new herd or long transports are not always avoidable: In this case, supplementary feeding of certain minerals such as zinc can be useful to strengthen the immune defenses.
Wrong feeding is often the cause of mallenders and can be prevented by a feed change. Nutrient deficiency, a too rich pasture and bad intestinal flora weaken the horse and favor thereby an occurrence.