08/03/2025
🐴⚠️ Understanding and Managing Cellulitis in Horses ⚠️🐴
🔍 What is Cellulitis? Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that causes the skin and tissues beneath the surface to become inflamed. It usually affects the lower legs, but can occur in other parts of the body. The infection can arise from cuts, scrapes, or puncture wounds, or as a result of poor circulation, injury, or insect bites.
💡 Signs of Cellulitis in Horses:
•Swelling in one or more legs, often warm to the touch
•Lameness or reluctance to move
•Fever or elevated body temperature
•Painful or sensitive areas, especially on the legs
•Skin redness or heat over the swollen area
•Crusting or drainage of fluid if the infection is severe
🩺 What to Do if You Suspect Cellulitis:
•Contact your veterinarian immediately: Cellulitis can progress quickly, and early treatment is key to reducing pain and preventing more serious complications.
•Apply cold therapy: Applying cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce swelling and provide some pain relief.
•Rest your horse: Limit exercise to avoid aggravating the swelling and allow the body to heal.
•Follow your vet’s treatment plan: This often includes antibiotics (oral or injectable), anti-inflammatory medications, and possibly wraps to help reduce swelling.
🔧 Prevention Tips:
•Keep your horse’s living area clean: Avoid sharp objects or debris that can cause cuts or punctures.
•Use fly control: Insects like flies can introduce bacteria to open wounds, leading to cellulitis.
•Prompt wound care: Clean and disinfect any cuts, scrapes, or abrasions right away, and monitor them for signs of infection.
•Regular hoof care: Hoof infections or poor circulation can contribute to cellulitis, so keep up with regular farrier visits.
💭 Cellulitis is treatable, but it’s important to address it quickly to prevent more severe complications, like abscesses or tissue damage. Early intervention and proper care will help your horse recover faster and get back to their normal routine