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What is strangles? Swollen
glands
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What is strangles?
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“Strangles” is a layman’s term for abscessation of the lymph nodes in the upper respiratory tract of a horse. This disease, also known as distemper, is highly contagious to other horses. The term “strangles” refers to the fact that in some cases, the lymph nodes become so enlarged that they actually constrict the airway, or “strangle” the sick animal. |
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| Causes | |
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Streptococcus
equi is the bacteria that causes the infection known as strangles.
It infects only horses. The infection begins in the mucous membranes (gums
and inner lining) of the mouth and nose. Drainage by the lymphatic system
then carries the infection to other lymph nodes, which are located
throughout the body. Severe infections can cause abscesses (some fatal) in
major organs. Young horses are most susceptible, but strangles can occur
in horses of any age. The infection is spread through contamination from
the nasal discharges of infected horses. Items such as buckets, halters,
bridles, and even pastures can become contaminated and serve as sources of
infection, even if horses are not present, for up to 4 weeks. Horses
themselves can transmit the infection for up to 4 weeks following their
infection.
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Clinical signs |
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Strangles has a 3-8 day incubation period before clinical
signs become evident. The first sign of strangles is usually reluctance to
eat or drink. Symptoms include fever (103-106 degrees F), violent
inflammation of the gums and nasal passages, and a thick mucoid nasal
discharge. The nasal discharge quickly becomes heavy and full of yellow
pus. A moist, painful cough is usually present, and the horse may be
reluctant to swallow. Development of swelling and abscesses in the lymph nodes of the throat may take 3-4 days. The nodes tend to drain pus during this stage and may rupture. Strangles often begins to subside after the 10th day of infection, especially if it is treated promptly and properly. |
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| Treatment | |
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If a diagnosis of
strangles is suspected, the affected horse should be isolated from all other
animals. Any contaminated items (shared buckets, halters, bridles, etc.)
should be thoroughly disinfected (with bleach if possible). Applications of
warm compresses to swollen areas will encourage them to break open and
drain. Abscesses may be
surgically opened and drained at the discretion of the treating
veterinarian. Your vet will also recommend the most appropriate antibiotic
therapy for your horse.
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| Prevention | |
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Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection. A
horse receiving strangles vaccination for the first time should receive an
initial series of vaccines. Vaccination on a yearly basis involves a single
“booster” dose. Your veterinarian can determine the proper vaccination
schedule for your horse based on your location and risk factors specific to
your horse (age, environment, travel history, etc.)
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Pus discharge