How to Prevent & Cure Rain Rot in Your Horse

I grew up in a "horsey" family - my Dad's favorite t-shirt says, "The more people I meet, the more I like my horse," and we all feel that way. Since I was 8, I have been sitting on the back of a horse, and have raced barrels for most of that time. A few years ago, my Dad and I got into horse rescuing, and have saved over 20 horses from abusive or neglectful homes. One of the most common afflictions we have seen in the horses we have rescued is rain rot. Our latest rescue, a young colt, is currently recovering from a severe case of rain rot, but is coming along nicely.

What Is Rain Rot?

Rain rot is an infection of the skin that commonly affects horses. The bacteria lives in dirt and fecal matter and is transmitted by contact with infected ground or another infected horse. Rain rot is similar to mange in its manifestation, but is not the same thing. Rain rot can be easily cured, but you must exercise patience and perseverance.

How Is It Treated?

Rain rot is treated by antibiotic ointment in most cases. Our colt, known as "Guy," was severely malnourished, which helped the rain rot take over his entire body. Once we got him on a good, healthy diet, the rain rot began to heal on its own. You must also keep the horse's skin clean and taken care of. Rain rot causes scabs to form on the horse's skin. Do not pull the scabs off - they will fall off on their own.

How Is It Prevented?

Rain rot is prevented in much the same way it is cured. Keep your horse on a good, healthy diet of quality food, but don't over-feed. A diet high in oil is also a good idea - canola oil is a great additive to help keep your horse's skin soft and supple and moisturized. Corn oil is also good if you don't have canola oil on hand. Keep your horse's skin and hair in good condition, clean and healthy. In addition, parasite control is of the utmost importance. Keep your horse on a high-quality deworming medication. Worms can attack the horse's immune system, making them susceptible to rain rot.

As always, avail yourself of the services of a responsible, licensed veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about any aspect of your horse's health.

Sources:

Interview with Fuzz Granderson (deceased, 1997), Horse Trainer and Owner of Fuzz Granderson Stables & Barn Three, December 1991.

Interview with TR Cravens, Horse Trainer, Rescuer and Owner of the Lazy D Stables in Gibson County, Indiana, January 2011.

Interview with Jake Bryant, Horse Trainer, Rescuer and Owner of JB Stables, Burnt Prairie, Indiana, March 1999.

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