Victoria’s wet season is no joke. Paddocks turn to sludge, rugs stay damp, and hooves never seem to dry. For horse owners, this kind of weather brings more than just mud, it opens the door to a range of nasty fungal infections.
These skin and hoof issues can sneak up quickly, spread fast, and be a real pain to treat if left too long.
But with some simple routines and smart thinking, you can prevent most fungal infections before they even start. From mud fever to rain scald, let’s look at what Aussie horse owners need to know to keep their horses healthy during Victoria’s soggy months.
Know the Fungal Troublemakers
The most common fungal infections in wet conditions are rain scald, also called dermatophilosis, and mud fever, which affects the lower legs.
Both thrive in moisture, especially when your horse’s skin stays damp and dirty. These fungi love warm, wet environments, and once they find a soft patch of skin, they’re quick to settle in.
Symptoms can include scabs, redness, hair loss, and swelling. Horses might flinch when touched or seem sore in certain areas. Fungal infections aren't just a surface issue. If ignored, they can lead to bigger health problems or lameness.
Dry Skin Beats Damp Skin
The best defence against fungus is dry skin. Sounds easy, right? But in Victoria’s wet season, drying out can feel impossible. Start by checking your horse daily. If their coat is soaked through or their legs are caked in mud, help them dry off as soon as possible.
Use a towel to pat the skin dry and avoid rubbing too hard. If they’re rugged, check that the rug isn’t trapping moisture. Rugs should be waterproof but also breathable. A soaked rug can do more harm than good. If it’s wet inside, take it off and let your horse go bare until it dries.
Clean Legs Make a Big Difference
Mud fever often starts around the fetlocks and pasterns.
These areas stay close to the wet ground and are often missed during quick checks. After turnout, hose off thick mud gently, then dry the legs completely. Some horse owners clip the hair on the lower legs to help them dry faster, but only do this if your horse isn’t going to be standing in deep mud.
Exposed skin is more vulnerable if it doesn’t stay clean and dry.
Check for scabs or flaky skin every day. The earlier you catch it, the easier it is to treat. If you do see signs of infection, gently clean the area with an antiseptic wash and speak to your vet about treatment options.
Stable Smarter, Not Longer
It’s tempting to stable your horse full-time during the wet season to keep them clean and dry. But horses still need movement for their mental and physical health. Standing in one spot too long, especially on damp bedding, can lead to fungal issues around the hooves and pasterns.
Instead, aim for shorter, dry periods indoors.
Keep stables well-ventilated and change bedding often. Make sure your horse isn’t standing in urine or wet patches.
If you’ve got a covered yard or dry turnout area, rotate your horse’s time between these spaces to balance protection with movement.
Use the Right Products the Right Way
There are plenty of antifungal washes and sprays on the market. Some horse owners like using diluted iodine or chlorhexidine-based solutions.
These can help, but they need to be used correctly. Always wash and dry the area first. Never apply products on top of wet or dirty skin, that just seals in the problem.
After treatment, keep the area dry and watch for any signs of irritation. Sometimes less is more.
If your horse reacts badly to a product, stop using it and try something gentler. And remember, always talk to your vet before applying treatment and if things don’t improve!
Boost Immunity From the Inside Out
A healthy immune system helps fight off infections. Make sure your horse is getting the right nutrition. Good quality forage, balanced minerals, and plenty of fresh water go a long way. If your horse struggles with skin issues every wet season, consider supplements that support coat and skin health.
Ask your vet or equine nutritionist for guidance. Some horses benefit from added zinc, biotin, or omega fatty acids. Just be careful with over-supplementing. More is not always better.
Stay Ahead With Routine Checks
Daily checks are your best prevention tool. Run your hands along your horse’s back, neck, belly, and legs. Feel for bumps, scabs, or heat. Look for changes in coat texture or colour. Catching fungal infections early means you can stop them before they spread.
It’s also a good idea to rotate paddocks if possible. Giving wet ground time to rest reduces the amount of bacteria and fungus your horse is exposed to. Even dragging or lightly harrowing the field can help dry out trouble spots.
Wrap Up
Victoria’s wet season can be rough, but fungal infections don’t have to be part of the deal. With some daily care, the right gear, and smart turnout strategies, you can keep your horse’s skin and hooves in great shape.
Prevention really is easier than cure, and your horse will thank you for the extra attention.
Keep an eye on their skin, stay on top of drying routines, and never ignore the little things. Because when it comes to fungus, a small spot today can turn into a big issue tomorrow. Stay dry, stay vigilant, and stay connected to your horse’s needs, even when the paddocks look more like lakes.
