Strangles is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Streptococcus equi. It is a highly contagious disease that affects the upper respiratory tract of horses. Strangles can cause a fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a thick discharge from the nose and eyes. Symptoms of strangles include coughing, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, depression, and loss of appetite. The disease is most commonly spread through direct contact with an infected horse or contaminated materials.
Diagnosis of Strangles in Horses
The diagnosis of strangles in horses is usually made based on the horse’s clinical signs and history. Your veterinarian may also order additional tests such as a complete blood count, a throat culture, or a lymph node biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Strangles in Horses
The treatment of strangles in horses is typically focused on managing the symptoms and preventing the spread of infection. Treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and supportive care. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove large abscesses.
Antibiotics Used to Treat Strangles in Horses
Antibiotics are the main treatment for strangles in horses. Commonly used antibiotics include:
- Penicillin: Penicillin and its derivatives are the most commonly used antibiotics for the treatment of strangles in horses. Penicillin is usually given in combination with other antibiotics to treat severe cases of strangles.
- Erythromycin: Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is used to treat mild to moderate cases of strangles in horses.
- Tetracyclines: Tetracyclines are a group of antibiotics that are used to treat bacterial infections in horses. They are often used in combination with other antibiotics for the treatment of strangles.
- Cephalosporins: Cephalosporins are a group of antibiotics that are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in horses. They are often used in combination with other antibiotics for the treatment of strangles.
Duration of Antibiotic Treatment for Strangles in Horses
The duration of antibiotic treatment for strangles in horses depends on the severity of the infection and the response to treatment. Generally, it is recommended that antibiotics be given for at least 2 weeks. In some cases, longer courses of antibiotics may be required.
Side Effects of Antibiotic Treatment for Strangles in Horses
Antibiotic treatment for strangles in horses may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, antibiotics may also cause kidney and liver damage.
Precautions When Giving Antibiotics for Strangles in Horses
It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions when giving antibiotics for strangles in horses. The animal should be monitored closely for any adverse reactions to the medication. In addition, the animal should be kept in a clean environment and should not be allowed in contact with other horses.
Alternatives to Antibiotics for Strangles in Horses
There are several alternatives to antibiotics for the treatment of strangles in horses. These include natural remedies such as herbs and homeopathic remedies. Additionally, supportive care such as rest and nutrition can help to reduce the symptoms and speed up recovery.
Prevention of Strangles in Horses
The best way to prevent strangles in horses is to practice good biosecurity. This means avoiding contact with horses that may be infected and ensuring that all horses have up-to-date vaccinations. In addition, it is important to maintain good hygiene practices when handling horses and to properly dispose of any contaminated materials.
Conclusion
Strangles is an infectious disease that affects the upper respiratory tract of horses. The diagnosis of strangles is usually made based on the horse’s clinical signs and history. Treatment of strangles usually involves antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and supportive care. Commonly used antibiotics include penicillin, erythromycin, tetracyclines, and cephalosporins. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions when giving antibiotics for strangles in horses and to practice good biosecurity to reduce the risk of infection.