Skin disorders in horses can captivate your attention while remaining mysterious. The odd-looking lump, bumpy or bald spot appears to be harmless on the horse’s skin, and when you rub it, it doesn’t cause any discomfort to your horse. Do you think it’s something you could easily ignore? Or should you seek medical assistance?
The lump results from an underlying fungal, bacterial, or viral infection, an insect bite or sunburn, an allergic reaction or abrasion, or any other bruises that the world can throw at a horse. The solution to the problem will differ.
Prevalent Skin Ailments in Horses
To treat an illness properly, it is first necessary to determine the cause, but some conditions with distinct causes could appear strikingly alike. Applying your favorite ointment on your skin could cause more harm than benefit. The most common skin ailments on horses are listed here.
1. Fungal Dermatitis
The affected areas are spherical and hairless and have crusty, scabby skin. Lesions on the face, the neck and chest area, shoulders, and under the saddle or the girth are most common; however, they can form anyplace in the body. The affected areas may be itchy or painful. However, they rarely cause discomfort, and the horse appears healthy.
Ringworm is a fungal disease caused by various organisms that are usually members of the Trichophyton or Microsporum families. Dermatophytes consume the protein keratin that provides epidermal and hair cells their shape. You can look for horse emergency care online and contact them right away for immediate health treatment.
2. Rain Scald
Rain Scald is a scabby-looking crust that develops into elevated pimples and has hair tufts that are matted standing up. The crusts are found on moist body parts like the top line and where raindrops fall into the shoulders, barrel, or back quarters. However, they can also appear in the legs of lower limbs or on the faces of horses who stand in mud or graze on tall grass that is wet frequently.
The crusts break down as time passes, leaving small circular areas of bareness; pus can also be seen beneath freshly sloughed scabs. If exposed to moist air, the pathogen multiplies quickly. A severe infection can occur when germs find an opening in the skin like a tiny insect bite or cut.
3. Papillomas
Papillomas, also known as warts, are the growths of cauliflower that look gray or pink, which are usually tiny about the size of peas. They can be found in one or a group on the eyelids or the nose. However, they may also be seen on the ear or genitals and the lower legs. They do not appear to be uncomfortable or painful.
The horse papillomavirus can live for weeks on the skin or equipment and buildings and causes warts. Warts are more prevalent in horses younger than three. However, they can develop in adults. If you live in Texas and nearby areas, you can search for a reputable vet by typing in “Argyle vet clinic Texas” in your search bar to help you with your veterinary needs and services.
4. Papillary Acanthoma
In the ear canals, the ears are flat, crusty, and elevated white lesions with pink, sensitive skin beneath. Aural plaques are usually painless and are considered to be a cosmetic problem. However, bites from flies can aggravate the lesions, leading some horses not to want to be bridled or have their ears touched.
Both ears are likely to be affected. They won’t disappear or shrink by themselves. Aural plaques are caused by the equine papillomavirus, which is carried by ear-biting insects such as the blackfly. Any breed or age of horse could create plaques.
5. Dandruff
Small skin flakes, typically located at the base of the tail and mane and sand-like specks, can be found on the girth area or any other place where sweat accumulates in the dry form. The large, waxy crusts are visible on the hocks, elbows, or lower legs, with oily seborrhoea. When removed, they can leave hairless areas up to several inches wide. Dandruff can cause a foul smell, but the horse is rarely uncomfortable or itchy.
Seborrhea primary is more common among Arabians and Thoroughbreds and is hereditary. Dandruff can be a lifelong issue for those suffering. Seborrhea that is initially present can be compared to secondary seborrhea that is dry or oily. You can visit this website and book an immediate appointment for other veterinary services like dental care.