Understanding equine health is crucial for any horse owner or enthusiast. One common and potentially serious condition that horses can develop is strangles. This bacterial infection can cause significant discomfort and complications if left untreated.
What Are Strangles in Horses?
Strangles, also known as equine strangles or purulent lymphadenitis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects horses. It is characterized by the swelling of lymph nodes, particularly those in the head and neck region.
Causes and Transmission
Strangles is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi. This bacterium is highly contagious and spreads easily through direct contact with infected horses or contaminated objects, such as grooming equipment or feed buckets.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of strangles is the development of painful, swollen lymph nodes, often referred to as “glands.” These glands are usually located on the underside of the jaw, in the throat, or on the side of the neck. Other symptoms may include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and difficulty breathing.
What Are Strangles In Horses
Strangles, also known as equine strangles or purpura hemorrhagica, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects horses. It is characterized by swollen lymph nodes in the head and neck region, often accompanied by fever and lethargy. This article delves into the intricacies of strangles, exploring its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Causes of Strangles
Strangles is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi (S. equi), a gram-positive, facultative anaerobic coccus. This bacterium is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected horses or contaminated objects such as feed buckets, halters, and grooming tools.
Transmission Routes
- Direct Contact: The primary mode of transmission is through direct contact with an infected horse’s nasal discharge, saliva, or abscesses.
- Indirect Contact: S. equi can survive for extended periods in the environment, contaminating objects and surfaces. Horses can become infected by coming into contact with these contaminated items.
- Respiratory Droplets: Infected horses can shed bacteria through respiratory droplets, which can be inhaled by other horses.
Symptoms of Strangles
The incubation period for strangles typically ranges from 3 to 10 days. The initial symptoms often resemble those of a common cold or flu, including:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes in the head and neck region (particularly the submandibular and retropharyngeal lymph nodes)
As the infection progresses, the swollen lymph nodes may rupture, forming painful abscesses. These abscesses can be located in the:
- Submandibular region
- Retropharyngeal region
- Other lymph nodes in the head and neck
In severe cases, strangles can lead to complications such as: (See Also: Can Horses Have Lemons)
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the throat
- Sepsis (a life-threatening infection of the bloodstream)
Diagnosis of Strangles
Diagnosing strangles typically involves a combination of clinical examination, history taking, and laboratory testing.
Clinical Examination
A veterinarian will examine the horse for swollen lymph nodes, fever, and other signs of illness.
History Taking
The veterinarian will inquire about the horse’s recent exposure to other horses, any recent illnesses, and any changes in behavior or appetite.
Laboratory Testing
Laboratory tests that may be performed include:
- Blood tests to check for signs of infection and inflammation
- Swabbing of the abscesses or nasal discharge for bacterial culture and identification
Treatment of Strangles
Treatment for strangles typically involves a combination of supportive care and antibiotics.
Supportive Care
Supportive care measures may include:
- Administering fluids to prevent dehydration
- Providing pain relief medications
- Maintaining a clean and comfortable environment
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are essential for treating strangles. The specific type of antibiotic used will depend on the severity of the infection and the horse’s individual health status.
It is important to note that antibiotics alone may not be sufficient to cure strangles.
Prevention of Strangles
Preventing strangles involves a multi-faceted approach that includes:
Vaccination
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent strangles. There are several commercially available vaccines that provide protection against S. equi.
Biosecurity Measures
Strict biosecurity measures are essential for controlling the spread of strangles. These measures include:
- Isolating infected horses from other horses
- Disinfecting all contaminated surfaces and equipment
- Limiting the movement of horses in and out of the stable
- Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly after handling horses
Early Detection and Treatment
Early detection and treatment of strangles are crucial for preventing the spread of the disease.
Any horse showing signs of strangles should be isolated immediately and examined by a veterinarian.
Recap
Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can cause significant illness in horses. It is characterized by swollen lymph nodes, fever, and lethargy. The bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi is responsible for the disease, and it spreads through direct and indirect contact. Prevention through vaccination and strict biosecurity measures is essential for controlling the spread of strangles. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics are crucial for minimizing the severity of the infection and preventing complications.
Frequently Asked Questions about Strangles in Horses
What is strangles?
Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial infection in horses caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi. It primarily affects the lymph nodes in the horse’s head and neck, causing them to swell dramatically.
What are the symptoms of strangles?
The most noticeable symptom is swelling of the lymph nodes under the jaw (submandibular lymph nodes). Other symptoms include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, nasal discharge, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, abscesses may form in the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
How is strangles spread?
Strangles is highly contagious and spreads through direct or indirect contact with infected horses or their secretions (saliva, nasal discharge, pus from abscesses). Contaminated equipment, bedding, or water sources can also transmit the bacteria.
How is strangles treated?
Treatment for strangles typically involves supportive care, such as pain relief, antibiotics, and drainage of abscesses if they form. Isolation of infected horses is crucial to prevent further spread.
Can strangles be prevented?
Vaccination is available to help protect horses from strangles. Good hygiene practices, such as disinfecting equipment and isolating sick horses, are also important for prevention.