[3] Initially, the horse will display a matted coat and bumps which will progress to crusty scabs and lesions.
[citation needed] Diagnosis is most commonly done with the identification of bacteria in the lesions by microscopic evaluation.
[citation needed] In addition to wet conditions, exposure to ticks, biting flies, and contact with other infected animals can also cause the spread of rain scald.
[3] Keeping the animal in a dry, well-ventilated area out of the rain and wet conditions will stop the bacteria from growing.
[citation needed] Typically the condition is not life-threatening, nor does it impact the welfare of the horse, so treatments are more for the owner's peace of mind and cosmetic appeal of the animal.