Introduction to Equine Strangles
Streptococcus Equi (or Equine Strangles) is an infectious, highly contagious disease that can affect horses and other equine species. The Gram-positive bacteria Streptococcus Equi is responsible for the disease. It spreads through contact with the nasal and ocular secretions from infected animals. This disease causes swelling of the lymph nodes in your neck and head, which can lead to difficulty swallowing and breathing. In extreme cases, the infection can spread to the lungs or other organs, causing serious complications. We will be discussing the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of Equine Strangles.
Equine Strangles: What Are the Symptoms?
Equine strangles most commonly manifests as swelling in the lymph nodes surrounding the neck, head, and throat. This swelling can make it difficult to breathe and swallow. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, nasal discharge, depression, and loss of appetite. Sometimes, the infection can spread into the lungs or other organs, leading to more severe complications.
Diagnosis for Equine Strangles
Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam on your horse if you notice signs of strangles. They may also take blood samples to confirm the presence of bacteria. You may also need to have an ultrasound, biopsy, or culture done.
Equine Strangles: Treatment
It is crucial to start treatment immediately if your horse has been diagnosed with strangles. The treatment typically includes a combination anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. Sometimes, surgery may be required to treat abscesses and other complications.
Antibiotics
Equine strangles can be treated with antibiotics. Based on the severity and results of diagnostic tests, your veterinarian will recommend the correct antibiotics.
Anti-inflammatory drugs
To reduce swelling and inflammation of the lymph nodes, anti-inflammatory drugs might be prescribed. These drugs can also help to reduce the chance of complications.
Supportive Care
Equine strangles can also be treated with supportive care. Supplemental nutrition, fluids and rest may be provided. To prevent bacteria from spreading, it is important to clean the area.
Prevention of Equine Strangles
Good hygiene and biosecurity are the best ways to prevent horse strangles. You should immediately isolate any horses that have been euthanized and keep them from becoming ill. Horses can also be protected against the disease by getting vaccinated.
FAQs
What are the signs and symptoms of Equine Strangles?
Equine strangles most commonly manifests as swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, head, and throat. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite.
How are equine strangles managed?
Equine strangles are usually treated with a combination anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drugs. Sometimes, surgery may be required to treat abscesses and other complications.
How can Equine Strangles be Prevented?
Good hygiene and biosecurity are the best ways to prevent horse strangles. You should immediately isolate any horses that have been euthanized and keep them from becoming ill. Horses can also be protected against the disease by getting vaccinated.
Conclusion
Equine strangles, which is highly contagious and infectious, affects horses and other equine animals. The most common sign is swelling in the lymph nodes around your neck, head, and throat. Good hygiene and biosecurity are the best ways to prevent equine stringgy. The treatment involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics along with supportive care. See here for more information.
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