As Autumn arrives, with cold damp mornings and evenings, horses begin to show signs of cracked heels and mud fever.  These diseases are usually caused by rough stubbled pastures, grit, dusty tracks or the tiny autumn mite (Trombicula autumnalis), all of which traumatize the heels and pasterns. 

Bacteria gain entry through these tiny wounds and produce swelling, pain, hair loss and ulcerations.  Wet, muddy conditions exacerbate the problem and lead to chronic infections, which are almost impossible to clear.  These are more pronounced in horses with white legs.  A similar problem can sometimes occur on the face and under the body.  It is important to try and prevent the disease, rather than wait to treat.  Washing with ectoparasiticides helps to control the autumn mite, but always generally inspect the legs for small wounds.  Cleaning, drying and treating these with antiseptic creams usually helps to alleviate the problem.  Liberal use of creams often helps to act as a barrier to invading bacteria and abrasions.