Equine Health Skin Problems

Horses can develop a variety of skin heath issues.

Horses are sensitive animals. The skin especially is prone to developing problems from a form of acne to intolerance to light. Diagnosing and treating these problems is essential to maintaining the health and happiness of the animal.

Hives

Hives, also called "nettle rash" or "urticaria", is an allergic reaction presenting as bumps on the skin that pit, or dent, if pressed firmly. Hives can appear suddenly and are 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and they can raise as much as 1/2 inch. Hives can also be accompanied by swollen lips, eyelids, mouth and even the vulva or perianal area in rare occurrences. Because hives are an allergic reaction, the causes are varied. Hives can be caused by absorption of toxins in the digestive tract following constipation or inflammation, from eating certain foods, coming into contact with certain plants or chemicals, or from a reaction to a vaccine or injection. Most cases of hives resolve themselves, but some severe or persisting cases might require a veterinarian and administration of an antihistamine or corticosteroids.

Photosensitization

Photosensitization is a condition is which a horse develops an abnormal sensitivity to light resulting in burning. Photosensitization is caused by substances in the bloodstream typically attributed to two main causes: ingesting certain poisonous plants containing the substance or the intake of substances that damage the liver and prevent elimination of a liver byproduct called phyloerythrine, which can cause photosensitization if enough builds up in the bloodstream. Treatment of photosensitization is immediate removal of the horse from the pasture or feed suspected of causing the condition and placing the animal in a closed stable in the dark and free from insects. Mild healing ointments can be used on mild cases to treat burns. More severe cases with lesions should be cleaned with a mild soap and treated with an antibiotic ointment. Administration of corticosteroids for inflammation and pain might also be necessary in severe cases of burns, as well as antibiotic injections to prevent infection.

Pyoderma

Pyoderma is a condition similar to human acne that presents as pustules on the skin, typically on the saddle ares, neck and shoulders. Pyoderma is a bacterial infection and severe cases can spread over the entire body or even cause ulcerations. This condition can be felt as tiny bumps under the hair of the horse and can produce small yellow drops of serum on top of the lesions or pustules. Treatment of pyoderma is a 10 percent bleach solution or purple lotion--a topical antibacterial antiseptic that can be found at most feedstores and farm supply stores--applied to the affected areas, as well as avoiding irritation to the areas. If treatment does not improve the condition or the condition worsens, a veterinarian should be consulted.

Sarcoids

Sarcoids are common, tumor-like growths on the skin of horses that resemble ordinary granulation tissue. Sarcoids can resemble warts at first, then begin to grow at a more rapid rate. A sarcoid can break open to show an ulcerated surface, which is highly susceptible to infection. Sarcoids are difficult to treat. Surgical removal typically can result in the recurrence of the lesions, but greater success has been found with freezing, cauterizing and radiation therapy. Whatever the chosen treatment for the sarcoid, it is important that it be kept clean and protected from infection. Corticosteroid ointments can be used and covered with a pressure bandage to protect open lesions from becoming infected.

Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungus that attacks the skin and lives in the hair follicles, causing the hair shaft to become brittle and break. The round appearance is caused by the spreading outward of the fungi from a central starting point, giving it the name "ringworm." The most common way for ring worm to be spread is from horse to horse--by the horses rubbing against one another or from using common saddles, halters, brushes, etc. Ringworm can also be spread through the soil or through contact with humans infected with ringworm. Treatment for ringworm is the use of a strong tincture of iodine rubbed into the ringworm spots using burlap or a rough cloth to help remove scabs and make sure the iodine reaches the skin. Another cure is a half-and-half mixture of bleach and water, though commercial treatments are available. It is important to keep all equipment used with the horse(s) clean to prevent the spread and recurrence of ringworm. Handlers should also be careful when treating ringworm, as it is contagious to humans.

References

• "How To Be Your Own Veterinarian (sometimes): A do-it-yourself guide for the horseman" Ruth B. James, DVM; 1990