Equine Health Hub
Autumn Horse Health: The Injuries That Rise With the Season and How to Manage Them
Equine Nutrition · Injury Prevention · Seasonal Management
The transition from summer to autumn brings more than cooler temperatures. Wet ground, early morning frost, heavy going and the physiological demands of seasonal change create a distinct set of injury risks for horses that every owner and yard manager should know.
Autumn is one of the most injury-prone times of year for horses. The combination of slippery ground, unpredictable footing, horses coming back into harder work after a summer rest, and seasonal hormonal shifts creates conditions in which tendons, ligaments, hooves, skin and joints are all placed under increased stress. Many of these injuries are preventable or, at the very least, manageable with early recognition and the right approach.
This guide walks through the key injuries that become more common between September and November, the signs to watch for, and how to support your horse's connective tissue health through the season.
Why Autumn Raises the Risk
Several factors converge in autumn to create a higher-risk environment for horses:
Ground conditions change rapidly. Heavy rain following dry summer ground can produce deep, heavy going almost overnight. Horses accustomed to firm, even footing may overextend tendons and ligaments when the surface gives unexpectedly.
Temperature drops affect tissue elasticity. Connective tissue, including tendons and ligaments, becomes less pliable in cold weather. Horses that are not properly warmed up are more susceptible to micro-tears and acute strains, particularly at the start of faster work.
Wet conditions create skin and hoof vulnerabilities. Prolonged exposure to mud and moisture softens the skin around the pasterns and weakens the hoof wall's natural defences against thrush and bruising.
Seasonal ACTH and hormonal changes. In autumn, horses naturally experience a seasonal rise in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), particularly in older horses and those with pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). Elevated ACTH is directly associated with increased laminitis risk, making autumn a critical period for susceptible horses.
Fitness levels may be inconsistent. Horses coming back into regular work after a summer at grass may have reduced core strength and tendon conditioning, making them less resilient to the demands of schooling, jumping and hacking on difficult ground.
Six Injuries to Watch For This Autumn
Signs: Heat in the lower leg Swelling along the tendon sheath Lameness on firm ground Pain on palpation Bowing of the tendon
Superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and suspensory ligament injuries are among the most common and economically significant injuries in horses, and autumn is a peak season for them. Research consistently shows these injuries account for approximately 46% of all performance-limiting conditions in sport horses, with re-injury rates as high as 20 to 57% once a horse has experienced an initial tear.
The mechanism in autumn is often a combination of factors: heavy going that absorbs energy unpredictably, cold tissue that lacks elasticity, and horses working beyond their current level of conditioning. The superficial digital flexor tendon runs along the back of the cannon bone and is placed under intense load with every stride, particularly at the canter and gallop. Even moderate overstrain can cause fibre disruption that takes months to heal fully.
Suspensory ligament injuries present differently but share the same seasonal risk profile. The suspensory apparatus supports the fetlock joint and can be damaged through repeated strain on uneven or heavy ground. Proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) in particular can be difficult to identify without imaging, as lameness may be subtle and inconsistent.
Management and Prevention
Always warm up thoroughly before faster work, especially in cold or wet conditions. Allow at least 10 to 15 minutes of walking before trot or canter work. Avoid sudden increases in workload after time at grass. Cold-hose or ice legs after strenuous work, particularly on heavy going. Any heat, swelling or unexplained lameness in the lower leg warrants prompt veterinary assessment and ultrasonography before the horse returns to work.
Signs: Crusty scabs on pasterns Matted hair at the heels Weeping or oozing skin Heat and swelling in the lower leg Reluctance to bear weight
Mud fever is caused primarily by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis, though other organisms including Staphylococcus species may be involved. It thrives in conditions of persistent moisture and compromised skin integrity, making autumn pastures an ideal environment for its spread. The constant wet-dry cycle of muddy fields softens the skin at the pasterns and heels, creating micro-abrasions through which the bacterium enters.
Horses with white legs and pink skin are generally more susceptible, as pink skin is thinner and less resilient to moisture damage. Feathered breeds such as Clydesdales and Friesians are also at higher risk due to the retention of moisture within the feathering.
Left untreated, mud fever can progress rapidly. Significant swelling, known as 'lymphangitis', can develop if the infection spreads to deeper tissue layers, causing dramatic swelling of the entire lower leg and severe lameness.
Management and Prevention
Limit standing time in mud wherever possible by creating a well-drained sacrifice area or bringing horses in overnight. Keep legs clean and dry; if washing, dry thoroughly rather than leaving damp. Barrier products applied to clean, dry skin can help protect susceptible horses. For established cases, removal of scabs under veterinary guidance, antibacterial wash, and keeping the area dry are the priorities. Severe or recurrent cases require veterinary treatment, which may include systemic antibiotics.
Signs: Rocking back onto heels Bounding digital pulse Reluctance to move or turn Heat in the hooves Lying down more than usual
Laminitis is a devastating condition involving disruption to the blood supply within the hoof capsule, leading to inflammation and, in severe cases, rotation or sinking of the pedal bone. While most owners associate laminitis with spring grass, autumn carries its own distinct risk through two separate mechanisms.
Fructan accumulation in autumn grass. As temperatures drop and daylight shortens, cool-season grasses that are stressed by frost accumulate non-structural carbohydrates, including fructans. These fructans ferment rapidly in the hindgut, triggering an inflammatory cascade that can precipitate laminitis in susceptible horses and ponies. The risk is highest on bright, cold days when grass has been frosted overnight and then exposed to sunshine, causing a rapid spike in fructan content.
Seasonal ACTH rise. Horses naturally experience a rise in ACTH levels in late summer and autumn, peaking around September and October. In horses with PPID (equine Cushing's disease), this seasonal rise is exaggerated significantly. Elevated ACTH disrupts insulin signalling and promotes the development of insulin dysregulation, the underlying driver of endocrinopathic laminitis. Research by Knoles et al. (2023) confirmed that ACTH peaks in autumn are substantially higher in horses with PPID than in unaffected horses, and that this seasonal peak represents the highest-risk period for laminitis in this population.
Management and Prevention
Strip-grazing or muzzling susceptible horses during the autumn flush reduces fructan exposure. Avoid turning horses out on frosted grass until after the temperature has risen above 5 degrees Celsius and the frost has fully melted. For horses with PPID, autumn is the critical time to check ACTH levels and review medication with your vet. Any horse showing laminitis signs should be box-rested on deep bedding and have veterinary attention promptly.
Signs: Shortened stride Stiffness that improves with work Reluctance to flex joints Change in gait quality Swelling around joints
Cold weather has a well-established effect on joint health in horses, particularly in those with pre-existing osteoarthritis or joint pathology. Synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and nourishes the articular cartilage, becomes more viscous in colder temperatures, reducing the efficiency of the joint's natural shock-absorption and lubrication mechanisms. This is why horses with joint issues often appear stiffer first thing in the morning during autumn and winter.
Horses kept in overnight in cold stables without adequate movement are particularly susceptible to stiffness and reduced range of motion. The hocks, fetlocks, coffin joints and stifles are among the most commonly affected. In horses with diagnosed joint disease, the inflammatory markers that characterise osteoarthritis can be exacerbated by cold-induced changes in joint physiology.
The cartilage matrix within joints is predominantly composed of collagen. As horses age and particularly following periods of high workload, cartilage integrity can decline, reducing the joint's ability to absorb concussive forces. Supporting the structural components of joint cartilage through appropriate nutrition becomes increasingly important as the working season intensifies in autumn.
Management and Prevention
Ensure stabled horses have sufficient movement; in-hand walking before ridden work helps warm joints gently. Where possible, stable horses in well-insulated spaces to avoid extreme cold. Thorough warm-up before schooling or hacking is essential. Horses with known joint pathology should be assessed by a vet at the start of the season, and long-term management strategies reviewed. Deep, supportive bedding reduces joint load during rest.
Signs: Black, foul-smelling discharge from frog Soft or crumbling frog tissue Tenderness on sole pressure Discolouration of the sole Low-grade lameness after hacking
Thrush is a bacterial infection of the frog caused predominantly by Fusobacterium necrophorum, which thrives in the wet, anaerobic conditions found in muddy paddocks and poorly cleaned stables. The frog, which plays a key role in circulation and shock absorption, becomes progressively degraded as the infection advances, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of tissue damage and vulnerability to further infection.
Thrush is more prevalent in autumn when horses spend extended periods in wet, muddy conditions. Horses with deep, narrow frog sulci are particularly susceptible, as these contours trap dirt and moisture. In severe cases, thrush can penetrate to the sensitive structures of the foot, causing significant pain and lameness.
Sole bruising becomes more common as horses transition from summer's firm ground to the variable terrain of autumn. Stone-heavy tracks, newly exposed hard ground and irregular surfaces can cause contusions to the sole, particularly in horses with thin soles or reduced hoof wall integrity. Unshod horses are more susceptible, though shod horses on rough, stony ground are also at risk.
Management and Prevention
Pick out feet thoroughly at least twice daily and more frequently when horses are in muddy conditions. Keep stable bedding clean and dry. Apply anti-thrush products to the frog sulci of susceptible horses preventatively during the wet season. For sole bruising, consider whether additional hoof protection is appropriate for horses working on stony ground; discuss options such as pads or boots with your farrier. Maintain regular farriery intervals to keep the hoof balanced and in good condition.
Signs: Sudden onset lameness Abrasions or cuts from falling Muscle soreness and guarding Asymmetry of movement Reluctance to work in an outline
Slipping on wet grass or mud is a leading cause of acute soft tissue injury in horses during autumn. A horse that loses its footing even briefly can sustain muscle strains, ligament sprains, joint capsule injuries or, in serious cases, fractures. The hindquarters are particularly vulnerable, as horses tend to slip through the hind feet when turning or pushing off on wet ground.
Overreach injuries, where the hind shoe strikes the heel bulb or tendon of the forelimb, become more frequent in heavy going as horses lose their normal rhythmic footfall pattern and reach further forward in compensation. This type of wound can be surprisingly deep and carries infection risk if not addressed promptly.
Back and sacroiliac joint injuries are also underdiagnosed in autumn. A sudden slip or fall can traumatise the sacroiliac region, resulting in subtle but performance-limiting pain that manifests as resistance, difficulty with lateral movements or reluctance to canter on one rein. These injuries often require specialist imaging and physiotherapy intervention.
Management and Prevention
Fit overreach boots during work in muddy or slippery conditions. Review whether your horse's current shoeing provides adequate grip for autumn going; your farrier can advise on stud use or alternative shoe types. Avoid working on slopes or tight turns in very heavy conditions. After any apparent slip or stumble, assess your horse carefully for signs of injury before continuing work and consider having a veterinary or physiotherapy assessment if any change in performance or behaviour is noted.
Autumn Management Checklist
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Extend warm-ups. At least 10 to 15 minutes of walk before trot or canter, particularly in cold or wet weather when tissue is less pliable.
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Assess ground conditions before every session. Avoid fast work on very heavy or deeply rutted going. Postpone jumping when the approach or landing is unsafe.
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Check legs thoroughly after work. Run hands down all four legs daily to detect early heat, swelling or sensitivity before it becomes a significant injury.
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Review feeding and grazing management. For laminitis-prone horses, limit access to autumn grass and discuss ACTH testing with your vet if your horse is 15 or older.
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Maintain regular hoof care. Keep feet picked out twice daily. Work with your farrier on a schedule and footing strategy appropriate for the conditions.
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Protect susceptible skin. Apply barrier creams to the pasterns of horses prone to mud fever before turnout. Dry legs thoroughly before applying any product.
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Build fitness progressively. If your horse has had time at grass, return to work gradually over four to six weeks before intensifying schooling or competition preparation.
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Support connective tissue nutritionally. Autumn is an ideal time to review your horse's supplement programme and consider whether targeted collagen support is appropriate for the workload ahead.
Supporting Connective Tissue Health Through the Season
The tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone that are most vulnerable in autumn are all connective tissues built from collagen. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the horse's body, providing the structural framework for virtually every load-bearing tissue. Supporting its integrity and renewal through targeted supplementation can play a meaningful role in both injury prevention and recovery.
Hydrolysed collagen peptides have been studied in both human and equine contexts for their ability to stimulate the resident cells responsible for tissue maintenance: chondroblasts in cartilage, tenocytes in tendons and ligaments, and osteoblasts in bone. Research from Texas A&M University (2020) demonstrated that horses supplemented with collagen peptides showed significantly improved tendon ultrasound scores after 90 days compared to controls, alongside improvements in cartilage biomarkers. A 2025 study published in the International Journal of Equine Science confirmed that collagen peptide supplementation supports bone density and mineral content in horses, effects that are particularly relevant in younger horses, breeding stock and working horses under sustained load.
Not all collagen sources are equivalent. The most meaningful support comes from tissue-specific peptides, each targeting different cell receptor pathways:
CPF 218
Joint and Cartilage
Specific collagen peptides that signal chondroblasts and chondrocytes to support cartilage matrix integrity and synovial joint health. Particularly relevant for horses with joint stiffness or high-impact workloads.
CPT 202
Tendons and Ligaments
Tendon-specific peptides targeting tenocytes to support the structural collagen fibre network within load-bearing soft tissues. Most relevant for horses returning to work or those with a history of soft tissue injury.
CPFB 105
Bone Matrix
Bone-specific peptides that signal osteoblasts to support collagen-rich bone matrix, contributing to overall skeletal resilience and bone mineral density in working horses.
The Dual-Action Mechanism
Hydrolysed collagen peptides work through two complementary pathways. Approximately 10% of the peptides are absorbed intact and bind to cell receptors on the relevant tissue cells, acting as biological signals to stimulate collagen synthesis. The remaining 90% are broken down into amino acids, providing the direct building material the body needs to construct new collagen fibres. This dual-action means the supplement both signals repair and supplies the raw materials for it.
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NDS Equine Multi Collagen Total®
A combination of three tissue-specific collagen peptides formulated for the working horse: CPF 218 for joints and cartilage, CPT 202 for tendons and ligaments, and CPFB 105 for bone matrix. Each daily dose delivers 7,500 mg of unique collagen peptides with 98.4% documented digestibility. Practitioner-grade, with no fillers or unnecessary additives.
CPF 218 — Joints CPT 202 — Tendons CPFB 105 — Bone 7,500 mg per day 98.4% Digestibility
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For best results, supplement consistently from the start of the autumn season rather than waiting for signs of trouble. Collagen turnover in connective tissues is slow; research suggests consistent daily supplementation for a minimum of 90 days produces the most meaningful structural outcomes. Pairing collagen supplementation with adequate vitamin C supports the hydroxylation of proline and lysine, the amino acid steps that are essential for stable collagen cross-linking.
When to Call Your Vet
Any acute onset lameness that does not resolve with rest within 24 hours
Heat, swelling or pain along the tendon or ligament line, particularly behind the cannon bone
Any suspected laminitis; do not wait to see if it improves
Mud fever that has not responded to home management within five to seven days, or where significant swelling of the leg is present
Any wound that penetrates to the joint capsule, tendon sheath or coronary band
A change in gait, resistance or performance that has no obvious cause and persists for more than a few days
Horses aged 15 or over with no current ACTH baseline reading, given the autumn seasonal rise in this hormone
Any horse that has had a prior tendon or ligament injury returning to significant work; imaging before and during the season is advisable
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my horse seem stiffer in the mornings during autumn?
Cold temperatures cause synovial fluid within joints to become more viscous, reducing the efficiency of natural joint lubrication. Horses with any degree of joint disease are particularly affected. Morning stiffness that consistently improves after a period of gentle movement is common, but if it is worsening or accompanied by lameness, a veterinary assessment is worthwhile.
My horse has had laminitis before. When is the highest-risk period in autumn?
The two peak windows are late September to October when the seasonal ACTH rise is highest, and any period when overnight frost is followed by sunny mornings, as this causes fructan levels in grass to spike significantly. Managing grazing carefully during these windows is the most effective preventative action.
How long does a collagen supplement take to work in horses?
Connective tissue turnover is slower than many other biological processes. Research indicates that meaningful structural changes in tendons, cartilage and bone require consistent supplementation for a minimum of 90 days. Some owners notice improvements in coat and skin quality earlier. Starting supplementation at the beginning of the autumn season and continuing through winter provides the most sustained support.
Is mud fever contagious between horses?
The bacteria responsible for mud fever, primarily Dermatophilus congolensis, can be spread between horses through shared equipment, shared grooming tools or direct contact. In a yard setting, it is worth treating grooming brushes and leg wraps as potentially contaminated if one horse develops the condition, and avoiding sharing tack or bandages between horses.
Can I continue schooling my horse if they have mild tendon heat?
No. Even mild, transient heat in the tendon region should be treated as a warning sign. Continuing to work a horse with inflamed connective tissue risks converting a minor strain into a significant tear that may take months to heal. Rest, cold therapy and prompt veterinary assessment are the appropriate response to any unexplained heat in the lower leg.
Sources and references:
Smith RKW et al. Tendon and ligament injuries in sport horses: epidemiology and outcomes. Equine Veterinary Journal (2019).
Knoles KA et al. Seasonal variation in ACTH and insulin in horses with and without PPID. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine (2023).
Watts KA et al. Fructan accumulation in cool-season pasture grasses and laminitis risk in susceptible horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science (2022).
Sutter NB et al. Collagen peptide supplementation and tendon integrity in horses: a randomised controlled study. Texas A&M University (2020).
Roca-Rodriguez L et al. Collagen peptides and bone mineral density in equine subjects. International Journal of Equine Science (2025).
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinary surgeon for the diagnosis and treatment of any health condition in your horse.
