Mallanders & Sallanders in Horses: Causes, Symptoms & Management

Mallanders and Sallanders are chronic skin conditions most commonly seen in heavy feathered horse breeds. While they sound similar — and are often discussed together — they affect different areas of the leg:

  • Mallanders affects the back of the knee (the carpal joint)
  • Sallanders affects the front of the hock

Both conditions present as a thickened, crusty, scaly build-up of skin, which can crack, become sore, and in some cases lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infection if left unmanaged.

Which Breeds Are Most Affected?

Mallanders and Sallanders are predominantly seen in heavy, feathered breeds, including:

  • Shire horses
  • Clydesdales
  • Friesians
  • Gypsy Cobs
  • Drum horses
  • Other draft and feathered crossbreeds

The dense feathering that makes these breeds so striking also creates a warm, moist environment around the lower leg — ideal conditions for skin irritation and the build-up associated with these conditions.

What Causes Mallanders and Sallanders?

The exact cause is not fully understood, but research and clinical observation point to a combination of factors:

Keratinisation disorder — The skin produces keratin (a structural protein) at an abnormal rate, leading to the characteristic crusty, scaly build-up. This is thought to have a genetic component, which explains why certain breeds are predisposed.

Chronic mite infestation (Chorioptic mange) — Leg mites (Chorioptes equi) are a significant contributing factor. They thrive in feathering and cause intense irritation, leading to repeated trauma to the skin. Over time, this can trigger or worsen the keratinisation response.

Immune and inflammatory response — Ongoing skin irritation and inflammation can perpetuate the cycle, making the condition difficult to resolve without addressing the underlying triggers.

Nutritional deficiencies — Deficiencies in key micronutrients — particularly those involved in skin integrity, immune function, and inflammatory regulation — are widely believed to play a role in both the development and severity of the condition.

Recognising the Signs

Early identification gives you the best chance of managing the condition effectively. Look out for:

  • Crusty, scaly skin build-up behind the knee or in front of the hock
  • Thickened, rough skin texture in affected areas
  • Stamping, leg rubbing, or signs of irritation
  • Hair loss or matting around the affected area
  • Cracking or weeping skin in more advanced cases
  • Secondary infection (warmth, swelling, discharge)

Management: A Multi-Pronged Approach

There is no single cure for Mallanders and Sallanders, but consistent management can significantly reduce severity and improve your horse's comfort.

1. Feather and skin hygiene
Keep feathering clean and dry where possible. Regularly check for mite activity, particularly after wet weather. Work with your vet on appropriate mite treatment protocols.

2. Topical care
Softening and removing the crusty build-up carefully (never forcibly) can help. Your vet may recommend specific topical treatments to manage secondary infection or inflammation.

3. Targeted nutritional support
Nutrition plays a key role in skin health, immune function, and the body's ability to regulate inflammatory responses. Key nutrients to consider include:

  • Biotin — essential for healthy hoof and skin cell production
  • Zinc & Copper — critical for skin integrity and immune regulation
  • Omega fatty acids — support the skin's natural barrier function and help modulate inflammation
  • Vitamin E & Selenium — antioxidant support for skin and immune health
  • MSM — supports connective tissue and has anti-inflammatory properties

EASIMalle Balancer™ from Perry Nutrition has been specifically formulated for feathered breeds prone to Mallanders and Sallanders, combining targeted micronutrients in a straightforward, filler-free formula designed to support skin health from the inside out.

Key Takeaways

  • Mallanders (back of knee) and Sallanders (front of hock) are chronic skin conditions driven by abnormal keratinisation, mite activity, and inflammation
  • Heavy feathered breeds — Shires, Clydesdales, Friesians, Gypsy Cobs — are most at risk
  • Management requires a consistent, multi-pronged approach: hygiene, topical care, and targeted nutrition
  • Nutritional support targeting skin integrity and immune function can make a meaningful difference to severity and comfort
  • Always work with your vet for diagnosis and to rule out or treat secondary infection