Ringworm in horses: Symptoms, treatment, and prevention

Ringworm in horses is a common skin condition that can spread quickly between animals, so recognising the signs early can help you take action and reduce the risk of it affecting other horses.

Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by worms. It’s a fungal infection that affects the skin and hair, and it can cause noticeable changes to your horse’s coat and comfort.

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes ringworm in horses, how to spot the signs, and how to treat ringworm in horses safely.

We’ll cover:

• What is ringworm in horses?
• What causes ringworm in horses?
• What are the symptoms of ringworm in horses?
• Early stage ringworm in horses
• How is ringworm diagnosed?
• How to treat ringworm in horses?
• How can I prevent ringworm spreading?
• Can horses get ringworm more than once?
• Can humans get ringworm from horses?
• When should I contact a vet?
• Ringworm in horses FAQs

What is ringworm in horses?

Ringworm in horses is a fungal skin infection that affects the outer layers of the skin and hair.

The fungi responsible for ringworm are called dermatophytes. These fungi feed on keratin, a protein found in hair, skin, and hooves, which allows the infection to spread across affected areas.

Despite the name, ringworm is not caused by a parasite and doesn’t involve worms.

Ringworm can affect horses of any age, although young horses may be more vulnerable as their immune systems are still developing.

What causes ringworm in horses?

Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected horse or through contaminated objects.

Common ways horses can catch ringworm include:

• Sharing grooming equipment
• Using contaminated rugs, tack, or stable equipment
• Contact with infected horses
• Contact with contaminated surfaces

The fungi can survive in the environment, meaning infection can continue to spread if equipment and areas are not cleaned properly.

Horses that are stressed, unwell, or experiencing changes in their environment may be more susceptible to developing infections.

What are the symptoms of ringworm in horses?

Recognising ringworm symptoms early can help you start managing the infection and prevent it from spreading.

Common signs include:

• Circular patches of hair loss
• Raised or scaly areas of skin
• Crusty or flaky patches
• Broken hairs around affected areas
• Itching or irritation
• Multiple patches appearing across the body

Early stage ringworm in horses

During the early stages of ringworm, horses may show subtle signs before obvious hair loss develops.

You may notice:

• Small raised areas on the skin
• Slightly rough or flaky patches
• Areas where the coat appears different from the surrounding hair

As the infection progresses, affected areas may become more noticeable, with circular patches of hair loss and crusting developing.

If you notice unusual changes to your horse’s skin or coat, it’s important to monitor the area closely and seek veterinary advice if you’re concerned.

How is ringworm diagnosed?

Ringworm can sometimes look similar to other skin conditions, so a vet may need to assess your horse to confirm the cause.

Your vet may diagnose ringworm by:

• Examining the affected skin and coat
• Taking samples from the affected area
• Looking for fungal growth

Getting the correct diagnosis can help ensure your horse receives appropriate treatment and can help rule out other causes of skin irritation or hair loss.

How to treat ringworm in horses?

The main aim is to remove the infection, support healing, and prevent it spreading to other horses.

Treatment may involve:

• Using antifungal treatments recommended by your vet
• Cleaning affected areas as advised
• Washing rugs, grooming equipment, and stable items
• Keeping infected horses away from others until advised it is safe

It’s important to follow veterinary advice and complete any recommended treatment, even if the skin appears to improve.

Stopping treatment too early could increase the risk of the infection returning or spreading.

Check out our first aid tips for horse owners here.

How can I prevent ringworm spreading?

Because ringworm can spread easily, good hygiene is one of the most important ways to help reduce transmission.

You can help prevent spread by:

• Avoiding sharing grooming equipment between horses
• Cleaning and disinfecting brushes, tack, and equipment
• Washing rugs and saddle pads regularly
• Separating affected horses where possible
• Washing your hands after handling an infected horse

If your horse has ringworm, let other people who handle horses know so they can take appropriate precautions.

Can horses get ringworm more than once?

Horses can develop ringworm again after recovering, particularly if they are exposed to the fungi again.

Maintaining good hygiene, cleaning equipment, and reducing contamination in the environment can help lower the chance of reinfection.

Can humans get ringworm from horses?

Yes, ringworm can spread from horses to people.

If your horse has ringworm, take care when handling them and avoid touching affected areas unnecessarily.

Good hygiene practices include:

• Washing your hands after handling your horse
• Cleaning clothing and equipment that may have come into contact with the infection
• Avoiding sharing grooming equipment

If you develop a skin rash after contact with an infected horse, speak to a healthcare professional for advice.

When should I contact a vet?

You should speak to your vet if:

• Your horse develops unexplained hair loss or skin changes
• The affected area is spreading
• Your horse appears uncomfortable
• You are unsure whether the condition is ringworm or another skin problem

Getting advice early can help you manage the condition and reduce the risk of it spreading to other horses.

Protecting your horse’s health

Skin conditions like ringworm can be worrying, especially when they affect your horse’s comfort and have the potential to spread. Knowing what signs to look out for and acting quickly can help you support your horse’s recovery.

Alongside everyday care and preventative measures, having the right horse insurance in place can help you feel prepared for unexpected veterinary costs if your horse becomes unwell or injured.

For more health-related advice, explore our horse health guides.