You do your best to keep your horse healthy. You feed your four-legged companion exceptional quality hay. You even have your horses hooves carefully picked, to make sure there are no bits of dirt or gravel. Maintaining healthy hooves can ensure your horse is protected from diseases. But what if your horse does fall ill? When you know the symptoms to look for, you can take action to make sure your horse has the best chance for recovery.
Treating Common Diseases in Horses
Thrush is an infection caused by bacteria that affects the frog of your horses hoof. One symptom to look for is the funky odor on or around the frog. Thrush bacteria thrive in moist or muddy conditions, so ensure your horses stall is clean. If your horse lies on a bed of straw, consider switching to shavings, which absorb moisture better. Check with your farrier if you think your horse is infected.
Hoof Bruise looks like patches on your horses hoof wall. Horse hooves can resist trauma, but a strong impact can still injure your horse’s feet. Most bruises can heal on their own, but for bigger injuries, your horse will need more attention and care. Look into investing in hoof boots and shoes to further protect your horses feet.
Its important to remember that occasional bruising can happen. But if your horse regularly gets hoof bruises, its time to investigate. Different factors can lead to bruising like, the terrain or shoeing problems.
Lameness is a clear sign that something is causing your horse pain. You could be dealing with a bone or muscle injury, or other neurological issues. If you notice your horses gait has changed, get your horse examined immediately. Treatment can vary depending on the cause of lameness. Your horse could need a good massage, a professional trainer, or medicine.
White Line Disease is caused by bacteria or fungi that attack the white line. The white line connects your horses sole to the hoof wall. Some signs to watch out for include lameness, tender soles, and a powdery area along the hoof wall. You can also hear a hollow sound when tapping the outside of the wall. When it comes to treatment, the earlier you can catch this disease, the better. Your horse will need corrective shoes to reduce stress from the foot and to provide support.
Lockjaw, or tetanus, is a bacterial disease that affects your horses nervous system. Observe your horse for spasms, increased sensitivity, and protruding eyelids. While getting a tetanus shot is the best way to prevent this disease, your horse can also get antibiotic treatment.
Now that youre armed with this information, youll know what to do when your horse displays any of these symptoms. Working together with your veterinarian, you can give your horse the best quality care he deserves.
