Facial Fungus on Horses

Rain Rot

• Also known as dew poisoning and rain scald, rain rot is introduced through abrasions or bug bites. The bacteria live in moist soil and are most prevalent in humid areas with high temperatures. Rain rot can be present on a horse's face, but typically attacks the back, neck, withers, rump and legs. The disease is contagious and easily spreads to other horses as a result of consistently humid weather, poor stable conditions and insects, such as ticks and flies. The lesions appear as round scabs around matted clumps of hair referred to as "paintbrush lesions." As it progresses the lesions grow together, forming a crusty scab with yellow-green pus.

Rain Rot Treatment

• Treat even minor cases of rain rot immediately, as it can spread quickly. Bathe affected horses daily for approximately seven days with an antimicrobial shampoo containing iodine, benzoyl peroxide or chlorohexidine. Remove the scabs and mats of hair at each bathing, which will cause bleeding and considerable pain but is necessary for the healing to begin. Apply a povidone-iodine solution, phenol or chlorhexadine to the lesions for five days. Provide protection against bugs and keep the horse isolated in a dry, well-ventilated area during treatment, offering ample sunshine as weather permits. Acute rain rot may require medical treatment from a veterinarian consisting of streptomycin or penicillin antibiotic injections.

Ringworm

• Contrary to its name, ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm. Signs of the fungus include round, hairless patches on the horse's body that are flaky and crusty, with scabbing and possible blistering if left untreated. The lesions are itchy, highly contagious and can be spread to humans. Ringworm appears on the face, around the eyes and on the legs, girth and saddle areas. The disease is introduced through common abrasions and spread by sharing harnesses, saddle pads and grooming tools between horses. Ringworm is most common in horses 3 years of age or older and incapacitated horses.

Ringworm Treatment

• Although ringworm doesn't generally require veterinary care, contact a veterinarian immediately. Fungal infections can signify a more serious internal infection requiring medical treatment, and a blood panel may be recommended. Begin treatments immediately by isolating the effected horse and disinfecting all tack and grooming equipment with one part bleach to 10 parts water or povidone-iodine solution. Remove scabs and loose hair from the horse's lesions to inhibit spreading of the fungus and re-infection of the skin. Bathe the horse with an anti-fungal shampoo containing miconazole daily, for five days. Continue the treatment weekly for approximately four to six weeks or until the wounds are completely healed.

Rain Rot and Ringworm Prevention

• Prevent rain rot and ringworm by following good hygiene procedures, such as performing daily grooming, ensuring all horses are given adequate turnout, and that stalls are mucked and cleaned regularly. Provide each horse with its own tack and grooming tools so that equipment is never shared. Reduce environmental risks by keeping stabled horses as dry as possible, especially in wet areas and humid climates and by eliminating biting insects. Promptly treat affected horses by separating them from pasture mates to prevent the spread of infection.

  When introducing a new horse to your equine family, isolate it for two to three weeks. Observe it for possible signs of fungal or bacterial skin disease, such as coughing, skin abrasions or lesions.