Why does the skin on a horse's lower limbs heal slowly?

The healing process of the skin on a horse's lower limbs is indeed primarily influenced by the lack of muscle and blood supply in that area. The lower limbs of horses contain less muscle mass and have a reduced blood supply compared to other parts of the body. Blood circulation is critical for healing because it delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the tissues, which are necessary for repair and recovery.

In areas where blood flow is limited, such as the lower limbs, healing can be significantly slowed down. The skin in these areas does not receive the same level of nutrients and oxygen that other, more vascularized regions do, resulting in a longer recovery period for injuries or wounds. Understanding this physiological characteristic is key for anyone caring for horses, as it can influence both the treatment of injuries and the management of the horse's overall health.