Sores and fissures are common problems for horses, and negatively affect their general well-being as well as performance. Knowing the causes, symptoms and possible solutions is essential to prevent and treat them effectively.
Sores: What They Are and How to Prevent Them
Horse sores are skin irritations caused by excessive rubbing or pressure of objects (such as tack, saddles or other accessories) on the skin of areas in close contact with such objects, and therefore develop mainly on the back, shoulders and withers.
Causes of Sores
- Unsuitable or poorly adjusted equipment: Improperly adjusted or poor quality saddles and harnesses are the main cause of sores. In fact, if the saddle does not fit the horse's back well or the harness is too tight, excessive pressure or rubbing is generated that can cause injury.
- Sensitive skin: Some horses have particularly delicate skin and are more prone to developing sores, especially in humid weather conditions or if they sweat excessively.
- Prolonged use of equipment: even the prolonged use of such equipment can cause irritation from rubbing, especially if the horse is engaged in intense or long-lasting activities without breaks.
Symptoms of Sores
- Redness and swelling in the affected area
- Localized hair loss
- Areas of thickened or flaky skin
- Pain
Prevention and Treatment
- Check your equipment regularly: Make sure the saddle and tack are well adjusted and do not exert excessive pressure. Invest in quality equipment that fits the horse's conformation correctly.
- Cleaning the horse's skin and accessories: keep your horse and his equipment clean to reduce the risk of infection and chafing.
- Use protections: in case of sensitive skin, the use of padded saddle pads or protectors can reduce the risk of sores.
If there are already sores, the treatment includes:
- Rest: Avoid using the saddle or tack in the affected area until fully healed.
- Soothing products: apply creams or lotions based on zinc oxide and plant extracts to promote skin regeneration.
- Consult a Veterinarian: in more serious cases it is best to contact your trusted veterinarian who can evaluate the situation and possibly prescribe specific treatments.
Cracks: What They Are and How to Manage Them
Fissures are painful cracks that develop mainly in the folds of the pastern or in the hooves. The affected area often appears inflamed and with lesions that, if left untreated, can worsen and compromise the horse's well-being and mobility.
Causes of Fissures
- Excessive humidity conditions: Skin is more prone to damage when exposed to mud, water and wet soil for long periods of time.
- Lack of hygiene: accumulations of dirt and mud in the folds of the pastern can promote the onset of infections.
- Skin Sensitivity and Allergies: some horses may be more predisposed and develop cracks due to allergic reactions to certain soils or chemicals used.
Symptoms of Fissures
- Swelling and redness in the areas of the pastern fold or heel
- Painful cracks visible and sometimes bleeding
- Pain during movement, with limping in more severe cases
Prevention and Treatment
- Keep the horse in dry environments: limit time spent in wet or muddy areas, especially during rainy periods.
- Clean paws regularly: wash and dry the horse's legs carefully, paying particular attention to the folds of the pastern.
- Apply protective products: the use of hydrating and protective products can prevent excessive dryness and the onset of cracks.
If the cracks are already present, the treatment includes:
- Careful cleansing: Gently clean the area, removing any dirt.
- Apply creams: Moisturizing creams or lotions based on plant extracts can aid in healing and prevent further infections.
- Consult a Veterinarian: In severe cases, especially if the problem spreads or causes lameness, veterinary support is necessary for specific treatments.
Union BIO advice
UNION BIO offers various products formulated to promote skin well-being:
EQUIPROTECT: ointment (fat-based preparation) with plant extracts with a nourishing, emollient and soothing character, useful in case of cracks, sores, abrasions, skin alterations characterised by dryness and flaking; helps protect the skin and keep it soft.
EQUIPPROTECT PLUS: cream with zinc oxide and plant extracts with astringent, regenerative and protective properties, adjuvant in the healing of the skin in case of retropastral fissures, sores and wet lesions of the horse.
SKINCUT: cream with plant extracts that promotes tissue repair and creates a light, protective, breathable film; pleasantly scented with citronella to keep unwanted guests away.
Conclusion
Le saddle sores and fissures These are problems that can seriously compromise a horse's well-being and require targeted attention and treatment. Prevention is essential and relies primarily on proper equipment maintenance and good management practices for both the stable and the animal. Furthermore, prompt intervention at the first sign of irritation or injury will help the horse stay healthy, improving its quality of life and performance. With a few simple measures, owners can do much to protect their horses from these annoying and painful problems.
