Mallenders isn’t a simple skin disease – it’s linked to detox overload in the gut–liver–kidney system, often tied to KPU (Cryptopyrroluria). Creams won’t cure it. The only long-term way forward is to restore the hindgut biome and liver detox pathways with a KPU Reset Programme. See our Mallenders Advice Page for the full plan.

Mallenders and sallenders are caused by toxins being pushed out through the skin when the liver and kidneys are overloaded. It’s not “excess keratin” as once thought – it’s a detox problem showing up on the legs. Learn more on our Mallenders Advice Page.

Heavy, feathered breeds like Cobs, Shires, and Friesians are more prone because they have more oil glands in their legs. This makes them more likely to excrete toxins through the skin. Genetics and metabolism play a key role. See our Blog which sheds light on the genetics link - Mallenders Musings: shedding light on the links between genetics and the detox pathways

Yes. The best results come from feeding a clean, natural, fibre-based diet, restoring the hindgut biome, and supporting the liver and kidneys. Our Mallenders Support Programme follows this approach. See our Mallenders Shop Page to learn more.

No. Mallenders isn’t caused by mites, although vets often mistake it for mite infestation. Chemical mite treatments usually make things worse by stressing the liver further. The real cause is detox overload - read more on our Mallenders Advice Page.

We've not yet heard of one. TBs have fewer skin oil glands and different metabolic tendencies, so they don’t usually excrete toxins through the skin. Feathered breeds are far more prone. For the bigger picture, see our Mallenders Advice Page.

Mud fever is usually triggered by external bacteria and wet conditions. Mallenders is an internal detox issue that shows up as dry, scabby skin on the legs. Some horses may show both, but the root causes are different. Read more on our Coat & Skin Advice Page.

Supplements can support recovery if they target the right systems – especially gut biome health, liver detox, and balanced minerals (without biotin). Our Mallenders Support Programme includes these in a structured way. See our Mallenders Shop Page for details.

Persistent scabs and crusts on the legs often mean toxins are being excreted through the skin. This happens when the gut–liver detox system isn’t working properly. Supporting the hindgut biome and liver is key, and for this you need to see our KPU Advice Page.

Yes. A poor diet (haylage, processed feeds, fillers) disrupts the hindgut biome, which stops producing activated vitamin B6 (P5P). Without P5P, the liver can’t detox properly, so toxins end up pushed out through the skin. We go into this in more detail on our Mallenders Advice Page.