Equine Common Health Problems

Common Health Problems in Horses

Mud Fever

Mite Infestation

Thrush

Capped elbows/hocks/knees

Knocks to bony areas

Thrush

Thrush is a prevalent frog infection, frequently linked to moist or damp conditions, and consequently, it tends to be more prevalent during the winter season. Nevertheless, inadequate foot structure, such as extended heels, or subpar hygiene, can heighten a horse's susceptibility to thrush. While it can affect any hoof, it is more often observed in the hind feet. Thrush results in an unpleasant-smelling, dark discharge emanating from the frog, and applying pressure to the affected area elicits discomfort. On occasions, it can also lead to general swelling in the lower leg. Neglecting treatment can result in the infection penetrating deeper foot tissues, potentially causing lasting damage.

Knocks to bony areas

This can occur in any region where the bone is in proximity to the surface, such as the hips, shoulders, or skull. For instance, a horse might accidentally bump its hip while passing through a doorway, strike its head against a hayrack or door frame, or receive a kick on the shoulder or cannon bone from another horse. Such trauma can result in swelling, skin abrasions, and, in severe cases, fractures.

Capped elbow/hocks/knees

A capped elbow, hock, or knee refers to an inflamed swelling or expansion of the bursa covering the respective joint. Typically, this condition arises due to either physical injury or prolonged contact with a firm surface. The 'capping' denotes the gentle, fluid-filled enlargement that can be detected just beneath the skin. Typically, the horse does not exhibit signs of lameness.

Mite infestation

Mites are minuscule parasites that inhabit a horse's skin, with the most prevalent species predominantly affecting the lower limbs. They induce irritation, and horses afflicted with mites are frequently observed engaging in behaviours such as stamping, scratching their legs against one another, or nibbling at their limbs. Scabs are frequently visible, and occasionally, lesions with exuding discharge may also manifest.

Mud Fever

Mud fever, also known as equine pastern dermatitis, is a bacterial skin infection that impacts the lower limbs. It is prevalent in horses that stand in damp, muddy fields or rest on soiled bedding, which softens the skin due to continuous moisture exposure. Mud fever can also be acquired through injuries, inadequate grooming, sandy terrain, and parasitic infestation, when the skin's integrity has been compromised. Horses with white limbs appear to be particularly prone to it, as do horses with substantial feathering. The symptoms of mud fever may exhibit slight variations in each case, but typically, the skin will appear dark pink and inflamed, with overall swelling in the affected region. The hair becomes tangled, and there are often numerous small scabs, especially around the heels and the rear of the pasterns. This condition can be extremely painful and can result in varying degrees of lameness, depending on its severity.