How to Get Rid of Rain Rot

Horses contract rain rot through a fungus that infects the skin. They generally come in contact with it from infected items such as saddles, brushes or blankets. Heavy moisture and long hair also contribute to this infection. Insect bites allow the aforementioned conditions to gain access to the skin tissue. The ailment is not generally painful to the horse until the scab is removed. There are several things you can do to get rid of rain rot.

Things You'll Need

  • Gloves
  • Brush
  • Soap or shampoo
  • Antiseptic
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on gloves and wash the infected areas with soap or shampoo to break the scabs. The scrubbing process will be painful for the horse, and you may need to do this in several short sessions to minimize the horse's discomfort.

    • 2

      Leave the soap on the horse for a few minutes to work the scabs loose.

    • 3

      Apply an antiseptic to kill the fungus. Steve Conboy of NetPets recommends a solution of lime and sulfur: mix one part lime and sulfur with eight parts water. Apply this to the infected areas.