Feather Mites and long term damage

[Chelsea]

Hi,

I'm getting a traditional cob in the few weeks. Was looking at pictures of two for sale and noticed that on their hindlegs they had lumps inside their hocks, just above the feather. Both have A LOT of feather and loads of bone. Is this a reaction to feather mites?

I've not gone to see them in person yet would like to know if these lumps disappear when treated or if I should just not bother?

[dancer]

More likely to be sallenders/mallenders rather than mites

[Chelsea]

Thank you dancer, that's what I was worried about. I think I will steer clear as I imagine what's under the feather is even worse. Its just strange, I actually saw one on facebook today being shown with similar bumps. Seems quite common.

[dancer]

I think it is - apparently it is a skin condition that feathered horses/ponies are predisposed to.

[kateanne0]

Feather mites can be treated by the vet with an annual injection (initially used on cattle)that worked very well on our mare. You can also purchase a sulphur based product from the vet. Wash feathers, rinse well and then rinse again with the sulphur product. Leaves feather looking duster bright yellow but by morning the dry feathers are bright white.

Worked brilliantly for us and eventually, after about 3 years, the mare stopped having the injection and we never had a mite problem again.