What is Mallenders & Sallenders (M&S)?

M&S is a skin condition in horses, specifically affecting the lower legs.  Characterised by the overproduction of keratin, it leads to thickened, crusty scabs in areas like the back of the knee (Sallenders) and the front of the hock (Mallenders).  These tend to be found in heavy breeds such as cobs and draft horses with feathered legs. Problems caused can be pain, discomfort, bacterial and fungal infections and even lameness if left untreated.

This is the progress made with a lovely Fell Pony called Little Fred after just 2 weeks of daily application.

There is no cure because the overproduction of keratin cannot be stopped. This cream works to manage the issue and needs to be regularly applied.

What are Feather Mites?

Feather mites are miniscule parasites found on the legs of feathered horses, living on the skin and feeding on the dead skin cells. They can also feed off the scabs formed through Mallenders & Sallenders so the two conditions often go hand in hand.  This leads to an irritated horse with very itchy skin with scabs forming and a cycle of inflammation and itching (caused by the horse rubbing, biting and stamping) which can be very hard to break, especially as the mites are easily transmitted. You can save on vet treatments which only work on the adult mites.  The shampoo and spray help to keep in control of feather mites week after week, leading to a happier horse and owner!

Directions of use:

Our Feather Mite Shampoo and Biosect Spray contain the same active ingredient. It is intended that you use them in co-ordination rather than at the same time as each other.

The shampoo is a great way to begin acting against the mites, eradicating them on contact, and will clean at the same time. Massage well, down into the skin from the knee downwards to the heels and leave for at least 5 minutes then rinse thoroughly.

The spray works in the same way but does not need to be rinsed off and should be applied in between shampoos, not at the same time. This is great for clipped feathers or as a quick application. Using gloves, massage through the feathers and rub well to soak the skin with the liquid.

We recommend shampooing first then apply your Farriers M&S cream to any scabs (once or twice daily with the cream to start) , then a week later use the spray, making sure it gets down to the skin. Repeat a week later to catch any hatched eggs, then a week to 10 days later then monthly and 3 monthly. Feather mites’ eggs can be rubbed from legs onto shared wooden posts and also from other horses they are in contact with so repeat use is vital to keep your horse feather mite free and happy.

Cautions

• Protective vinyl or rubber gloves should be worn.
• Avoid contact with eyes – if contact should occur rinse immediately with plenty of water.
• Harmful if swallowed – do not induce vomiting, seek urgent medical attention showing product label.
• Dispose of empty packaging and any remaining product as household waste – do not recycle used containers.