Strangles

Introduction

Vaccinations against tetanus and strangles are routinely given to horses. Vaccinations should be given because:

• these diseases can be severe and fatal;
• they are reasonably common;
• protection following vaccination is generally excellent provided regular boosters are given;
• the cost of the vaccination is very cheap when compared with the cost of attempted treatment and the value of the horse.

Strangles

Strangles is a disease of the upper respiratory system and the lymph nodes of the head. It is caused by the organism Streptococcus equi. 

It rapidly spreads from horse to horse through coughing, or by the horse eating or drinking infective droplets. The discharge may remain infective for over a month.
Horses attending studs, shows or camps, or those which are away on agistment, are at risk, and epidemics may follow such events. These horses should be vaccinated throughout their life.

Within 3–8 days of becoming infected, the horse will show a fever. The throat and larynx become so extremely inflamed that swallowing food or water becomes very painful or impossible. The lymph nodes of the head become swollen and very painful, and may eventually burst and discharge a thick creamy yellow pus.

Occasionally the infection spreads to other parts of the body, when it is then known as ‘bastard strangles’. This form is difficult and sometimes impossible to cure. Treatment involves isolation, antibiotics and supportive nursing. Disinfection of saddlery, grooming equipment, food boxes etc. must be done to stop transmission of the disease to other horses.

There is no immediate short-term protection for strangles should an outbreak occur. Seek immediate veterinary attention.

Prevention

The vaccination program that is best for your horse can be determined through discussion with a veterinarian.

The strangles vaccination involves an initial course of three (3) doses two (2) weeks apart followed by a booster every twelve (12) months.
Foals can be done from three (3) months old and younger foals can be protected by vaccinating the mare two (2) weeks prior to foaling.

The vaccine is injected intramuscularly.  The most convenient site for injection is the centre of the side of the neck.  Before the vaccine is injected, the proposed site of innoculation on the animal's skin may be cleaned by swabbing with cotton-wool soaked in a suitable antiseptic solution such as methylated spirits.  You can buy the booster vaccines from your vet or local saddlery and administer it yourself.

While the tetanus toxiod and strangles vaccination exists as two separate vaccinations, there is an equally effective combined vaccination on the market.

Record keeping

A formal record of vaccinations is useful for maintaining the required intervals. It is useful information both for a stud receiving a mare and for the new owner if a horse is sold.

Get your vets advice for any health issues with your mini.