At Carter Veterinary Services, we know how fast an equine disease like strangles can disrupt a barn. Highly contagious and potentially serious, strangles is one of the most well-known infectious diseases in horses. But with proper awareness, preventative strategies, and fast veterinary care, you can minimize the risks and keep your herd healthy and thriving.
Understanding Strangles and How to Protect Your Horse
Understanding Strangles and How to Protect Your Horse
What Is Strangles?
Strangles is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi and spreads quickly through nasal discharge or shared water, feed buckets, tack, or direct contact. Symptoms include fever, nasal discharge, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. While most horses recover, complications can arise—especially in young, old, or immunocompromised horses.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Early detection is crucial. Watch for behavioral changes like lethargy, loss of appetite, or isolation from herd mates. Contact your equine veterinarian immediately if you notice swelling under the jaw or thick nasal discharge. At Carter Veterinary Services, we use diagnostic testing to confirm strangles and guide you through treatment and isolation protocols.
Prevention Through Smart Management
Good biosecurity is your best defense. Isolate new arrivals for two to three weeks, sanitize equipment regularly, and avoid sharing water or feed supplies between horses. Vaccination is available and can be an important part of your equine care plan, especially for horses frequently exposed to new environments.
Supporting Recovery and Herd Health
If a horse contracts strangles, prompt care and strict isolation are essential. We provide supportive treatment, monitor for complications, and help reintroduce the horse to the herd safely. Following recovery, we also test for potential carriers to prevent future outbreaks.