Horse Diseases
LICE
horse lice
Signs
Severe irritation of skin, rubbing, biting and scratching, coat dull, some hair falls out. Mane and tail
becomes matted, loss of condition. Lice can be seen under good natural or artificial light if hair parted.
Mites live on the surface of the skin. They inhabit primarily the fetlock region and the butt of the tail,
but in severe cases can extend to other parts of the body. Long winter coats matted with dirt encourage the spread and development of mange.
Causes
Chorioptic mites transmitted by direct contact between horses, rugs, grooming gear. Long winter coats
encourage development and spread of mange mites. Sick or debilitated horses and those
suffering from vitamin/mineral deficiency are more susceptible.
Treatment
Diagnosis made by veterinarian following deep skin scrape and microscopic examination. Isolate infected horses immediately.
LEG MANGE
Mites live on the surface of the skin. They inhabit primarily the fetlock region and the butt of the tail, but in severe cases can extend to other parts of the body. Long winter coats matted with dirt encourage the spread and development of mange.
Signs
Severe irritation confined mainly to legs below knees and hocks, may involve inner thighs or belly. Muzzle and nose may become involved by horse rubbing legs with its muzzle. Skin in affected areas is red. Hair on legs becomes broken from constant rubbing.
Cause
Chorioptic mites transmitted by direct contact between horses, rugs, grooming gear, long winter coats
encourage development and spread of mange mites. Sick or debilitated horses and those suffering from
vitamin mineral deficiency are more susceptible.
Treatment
Definite diagnosis made by veterinarian following deep skin scrape and microscopic examination.
Isolate infected horses immediately. Treat affected stables.
LOCKED STIFLE
In this condition the kneecap becomes fixed, locking the stifle in such a position that it prevents flexion of the hind limb.
Signs
When stifle locked, leg assumes fully extended position with hoof bent backwards. Horse is forced to move with stiff leg,
front of hoof drags along ground, limb may remain locked in position of extension for hours or kneecap may be released every few steps,
allowing leg to flex suddenly, often a snapping sound is heard as kneecap released.
Cause
Problem is seen in all breeds and is inherited.
Treatment
Contact your veterinarian. In meanwhile if horse is backed or frightened, kneecap will often snap into position, releasing limb.
Surgery offers a complete and permanent cure.
