Rain rot is a common skin condition that is frequently mistaken for fungus. However, it is something different. Rain rot is caused by a bacteria and mainly occurs when the skin remains damp for prolonged periods.
The condition mainly occurs during warm, wet periods or when horses remain wet for extended periods under a rug or after rain. Sweat, a thick winter coat, or reduced immunity can also allow the bacteria to develop more easily.
How to recognise rain rot?
Rain rot often begins with small scabs in the coat. Under these scabs are tufts of hair that come away easily. The skin can be sensitive and look red or irritated in some places.
Common characteristics include.
- Small scabs in the coat.
- Tufts of hair that come away easily.
- Sensitive or irritated skin.
- Areas on the back, neck, withers or hindquarters.
- Especially visible after rain or prolonged dampness.
Rain rot is caused by a combination of environmental factors and a deficiency in the immune system.
Rain rot is caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis. This bacterium is often already present on the skin, but usually only causes problems when the natural skin barrier is weakened.
The risk of rain rot increases with:
- Prolonged wet or damp conditions.
- Sweating a lot.
- Thick winter coat.
- Minor skin damage.
- A reduced resistance.
Hoe behandel je rain rot?
Good treatment starts with keeping the skin clean and dry.
Carefully remove any loose scabs when possible and keep the affected areas clean. For severe or extensive infections, a vet may prescribe a suitable treatment.
Good hygiene of brushes, blankets, and other materials also helps prevent re-infection.
Internal support is important because…
One treatment focuses on fighting the bacteria. At the same time, the skin needs sufficient building blocks to recover well.
Unique B30 supports the body during recovery with, among other things:
- Vitamins A, C and E for skin and immunity support.
- Zinc and copper for healthy skin.
- Amino acids as building blocks for skin and hair repair.
- Antioxidants that contribute to the natural recovery process.
- Natural bacteria and a prebiotic to support gut health.
What can you do yourself?
In addition to good treatment, you can do a lot yourself to prevent rain rot:
- Let a wet horse dry thoroughly.
- Check regularly under blankets.
- Keep brushes and blankets clean.
- Treat minor wounds immediately.
- Support the resistance with a balanced diet.
When would you choose Unique B30?
Unique B30 is regularly used for horses that:
- recovery from skin problems;
- could use extra support from skin and resistance;
- Recovering from illness;
- to have reduced fitness or resistance.
| Mould | Rain rot |
|---|---|
| Caused by a fungus | Caused by a bacterium |
| Often round bald patches | Often scabs with tufts of hair |
| Contagious | Less contagious |
| Often treatment with Imaverol | Treatment depending on the severity and the veterinarian's advice |
Support with Unique B30
A treatment tackles the cause. Unique B30 supports skin, immunity, and recovery from within.
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