Although an environmental trigger for this disease is possible, this has not been proven.” Map shows the east-west divide of Alabama Rot incidence (Image: Vets4Pets) Tell-tale skin lesion that is the first sign of Alabama Rot (Image: : Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists) Scientists believe the way the disease is evident during the winter months and centred on certain areas of the country will produce the vital evidence to help them establish its cause and also provide an eventual cure.