Feather mites in horses are a common problem, especially for draft breeds and horses with heavy leg feathering. These tiny parasites can cause itching, irritation, and discomfort, and if left untreated, they can contribute to chronic skin conditions like Mallenders and Sallenders. Understanding the symptoms of feather mites, how to treat them, and ways to prevent infestations is essential for keeping your horse healthy and comfortable. In this blog, we’ll explore why horses get feather mites, the connection to Mallenders and Sallenders, and practical steps for treatment and long-term management.
What Are Feather Mites?
Feather mites are microscopic parasites, most commonly chorioptic mange mites (Chorioptes bovis), that live on the lower legs of horses. They thrive in the dense feathering found on draft breeds like Clydesdales, Shires, and Friesians. Feather mites feed on skin debris and cause irritation, leading to itching, hair loss, and in some cases, skin infections.
Because feather mites are so small, they are often invisible to the naked eye. Instead, horse owners notice the behavioural signs and skin changes caused by these parasites.
Why Do Horses Get Feather Mites?
Feather mites thrive in the warm, dense environment of heavily feathered legs. Horses with thick feathering provide the perfect hiding place for mites to multiply, making drafts and draft crosses especially vulnerable.
Some contributing factors include:
- Thick feathering that traps warmth and moisture.
- Herd exposure, as mites can spread from horse to horse.
- Seasonal changes, with infestations often worsening in winter when feathering is denser and the skin is less exposed.
- Compromised immunity makes some horses more prone to skin parasites.
Symptoms of Feather Mites in Horses
Feather mites can be tricky to diagnose because the parasites themselves are hard to see. Instead, horse owners often notice the following symptoms:
- Excessive stamping of the feet – a classic sign of irritation.
- Biting, rubbing, or scratching the legs.
- Thickened, crusty, or scabby skin around the pasterns and heels.
- Hair loss from repeated rubbing or chewing.
- Swelling or inflammation in severe cases.
- Secondary infections, as scratching and open skin create an entry point for bacteria.
How Feather Mites Can Lead to Mallenders and Sallenders
In some horses, chronic irritation from feather mites contributes to the development of Mallenders and Sallenders – skin conditions seen most often in heavily feathered breeds.
- Mallenders refers to thick, scabby skin behind the knee (on the flexor surface of the front legs).
- Sallenders occur similarly, but behind the hock (on the hind legs).
These conditions are caused by chronic hyperkeratosis (excessive skin production and scaling). Constant irritation and inflammation from mites can worsen the problem, making the skin cracked, sore, and prone to infection.
Managing Mallenders and Sallenders
If your horse develops Mallenders or Sallenders as a result of feather mites, treatment usually requires a two-part approach: managing the mites themselves and supporting the skin’s recovery.
Control the Underlying Cause
- Treat the feather mites thoroughly, as described in the section below.
- Without addressing mites, Mallenders/Sallenders will often flare back up.
Support Skin Healing
- Soften scabs gently with mild, horse-safe emollients (such as Sweet Relief Silver Cream). Never forcefully pick scabs, as this can worsen irritation.
- Moisturise dry skin with soothing creams to reduce cracking. (Sweet Relief Cream)
- Keep legs clean and dry, avoiding mud or damp bedding where possible. Use a skin care defence lotion such as Quick-Silver Lotion. It contains Ionic Silver which is antiseptic and will deep-clean the area, sweeping away any microbes.
- Clip feathers if necessary to allow air circulation and better access for topical treatments.
Prevent Secondary Infections
- Open cracks can invite bacteria and fungus, so watch closely for heat, swelling, or oozing. If this does occur, Sweet Relief Silver cream will soothe and support the skin's natural healing process.
- If infection is suspected, consult your vet, who may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medication.
Long-Term Management
Mallenders and Sallenders are often chronic conditions. Even after successful treatment, the skin may remain prone to flare-ups. Regular monitoring, consistent mite prevention, and skin-care routines will help keep your horse comfortable long-term. For a preventative solution, use either Quick-Silver Lotion or Sweet Relief Lotion.
How to Diagnose Feather Mites
Your vet can confirm the presence of mites with a skin scraping or tape test, examined under a microscope. Sometimes, diagnosis is made based on symptoms and response to treatment, since mites can be difficult to find.
How to Get Rid of Feather Mites
Treating feather mites can be challenging, as their environment (thick feathers, close to the skin) makes them hard to reach. Effective management usually involves a combination of:
Topical Treatments
- Shampoos, creams, and sprays designed to manage a mite infestation. Biteback's Sweet Relief Cream has a slippery finish, making it difficult for mites to attach.
Systemic Treatments
- Oral or injectable ivermectin or moxidectin may be used under veterinary guidance.
Feather Management
- Trimming or clipping feathers can make treatment easier and reduce the mites’ habitat.
- While some owners prefer to keep feathers intact for aesthetics, clipping can significantly improve results.
Stable & Herd Management
- Treat all horses in close contact, even if they don’t show symptoms.
- Regularly clean and disinfect grooming tools, boots, and bedding to prevent re-infestation.
Ongoing Maintenance
- Regular leg checks and grooming to catch early signs.
- Preventative washes or mite-control products during high-risk times of year. Biteback's Sweet Relief Lotion forms a protective barrier to biting mites.
Preventing Feather Mites
While it may be impossible to eliminate the risk entirely, you can reduce the likelihood of infestation by:
- Keeping feathered legs clean and dry.
- Regularly inspecting for irritation or stamping.
- Working with your vet on a parasite prevention plan.
Final Thoughts
Feather mites are a common but frustrating issue for horses with heavy feathering. Left untreated, they can cause significant discomfort and even contribute to chronic skin conditions like Mallenders and Sallenders. By recognising the signs early and working with your vet on a targeted treatment plan, you can keep your horse comfortable, healthy, and looking their best.