How is Strangles Treated in Horses? 🐴

Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial infection in horses caused by Streptococcus equi bacteria. It primarily affects the lymph nodes of the upper respiratory tract. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial for managing the disease and preventing its spread. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how strangles is treated in horses.

1. Recognize the Symptoms 🔍

Before treatment can begin, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of strangles.

Fever: One of the first signs, often 103°F (39.4°C) or higher.
Nasal Discharge: Thick, yellow, or white discharge from the nostrils.
Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swelling under the jaw or around the throat, which may abscess and drain.
Difficulty Swallowing: Due to swollen lymph nodes.
Lethargy: General lack of energy and reluctance to eat.

2. Immediate Action and Isolation 🚨

Strangles is highly contagious, so isolating affected horses is crucial.

Isolation: Move infected horses to a separate area away from healthy horses.
Quarantine: Quarantine any new or returning horses for at least 2 weeks to monitor for symptoms.

3. Veterinary Diagnosis 🩺

Consult a veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

Physical Examination: The vet will perform a physical exam and observe clinical signs.
Laboratory Tests: Nasal swabs, nasal washes, or abscess fluid samples may be taken to confirm the presence of Streptococcus equi.

4. Supportive Care 🛌

Supportive care is essential for helping the horse recover.

Rest: Ensure the horse gets plenty of rest in a clean, comfortable environment.
Hydration: Provide fresh water and consider electrolytes if the horse is dehydrated.
Soft Feed: Offer soft, easily digestible food to encourage eating.

5. Hot Compresses and Abscess Management 💧

Managing abscesses is a key part of treating strangles.

Hot Compresses: Apply hot compresses to swollen lymph nodes to encourage abscesses to mature and drain.
Lancing and Draining: In some cases, a veterinarian may lance the abscesses to drain the pus and relieve pressure.

6. Antibiotics Use 💊

The use of antibiotics in treating strangles is controversial and depends on the stage of the disease.

Early Stages: Antibiotics like penicillin may be used in the early stages before abscesses form, but this can sometimes prolong the disease.
After Abscesses Form: Antibiotics are typically avoided once abscesses have formed unless there are complications like severe respiratory distress or systemic illness.
Veterinarian’s Decision: Always follow your vet’s advice regarding antibiotic use.

7. Hygiene and Disinfection 🧼

Maintaining a clean environment helps prevent the spread of infection.

Disinfect Equipment: Regularly clean and disinfect feeding and watering equipment, grooming tools, and tack.
Stable Hygiene: Thoroughly clean and disinfect stalls and quarantine areas after the recovery of an infected horse.
Personal Hygiene: Wash hands and change clothes after handling an infected horse to prevent spreading the bacteria.

8. Monitoring and Follow-Up 🔄

Continue to monitor the affected horse and any others that may have been exposed.

Daily Checks: Monitor temperature and overall health daily.
Follow-Up Testing: Your vet may recommend follow-up testing to ensure the horse is free of infection before ending isolation.

9. Preventive Measures 🛡️

Implement preventive measures to reduce the risk of future outbreaks.

Vaccination: Consider vaccinating against strangles, especially if there are frequent new arrivals or travel.
Biosecurity: Maintain strict biosecurity practices, including quarantine protocols and limited access to the barn by visitors.
Stress Management: Reduce stress in horses, as stress can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.

Conclusion 🎉

Treating strangles in horses involves a combination of isolation, supportive care, abscess management, cautious use of antibiotics, and stringent hygiene practices. Early detection and prompt veterinary care are essential for a successful recovery. Preventive measures and biosecurity protocols are crucial to protect your horse from future outbreaks.