Ringworm in Horses
Ringworm, a transmissible fungal infection, presents a prevalent and challenging issue in horses. Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm but rather a type of fungus— Microsporum and Trichophyton. It’s an intruder that can disrupt a horse’s well-being and overall health. It’s crucial for horse owners to recognize this infection early for effective treatment. This document aims to provide a comprehensive guide on ringworm in horses, the best practices for prevention, and the most effective treatments. From recognizing the initial symptoms to becoming a fungus fighter, our guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to protect your equine partners.
Identifying Ringworm in Horses
Recognizing ringworm infection in horses involves vigilance in observing changes in your horse’s skin and coat. The initial signs include rough, scaly patches on the skin and the emergence of circular, hairless spots—typically around the bridle and saddle areas, but they can appear anywhere on the horse’s body. These spots may progress to larger, crusty lesions as the infection spreads. Horses may also exhibit signs of discomfort, such as itching or rubbing against surfaces. Early detection and treatment are vital in becoming a successful fungus fighter. For absolute certainty, consult a veterinarian who can perform a fungal culture to confirm the diagnosis.
What are its causes?
The fungi responsible for ringworm in horses is most commonly transmitted through contact with an infected animal, grooming tools, and contaminated bedding. Additionally, the fungus can also exist in soil and hay; thus, it’s essential to ensure these environments are kept clean and sanitized. Lastly, the fungus is highly contagious among humans as well; therefore, it’s critical to take adequate precautionary measures when handling horses with ringworm.
How is it treated?
Treating an outbreak on your horse begins with identifying the infection. Treatment often involves topical medications such as “Fungus Fighter” or “Heal Cream,” as well as anti-microbial shampoos and potentially oral medications. The legions tend to dry up and should be picked off whenever you are able to do so without causing pain to the animal so that the fungus is exposed to the open air and the medication. Cleaning and wiping the walls of the stall and trailer and the liberal use of disinfectants are also recommended, as this practice can eliminate a lot of the contaminants in the horse’s environment. It’s essential to be patient and persistent with treatment since this fungus can take weeks or months to eliminate. Ringworm in Horses is HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS! Avoid spreading the infection onto yourself or other horses by regular disinfection of tack and grooming implements such as brushes and towels. Anything that comes in contact with the disease should be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized between uses, as it is possible to reinfect or spread the disease to other parts of the horse or to other horses that you share equipment with. Try to wear disposable gloves while handling the animal and while performing treatments. Be careful that your clothing doesn’t come in contact with the sores as it, too, can spread the fungus. It is unlikely, but you can catch it from your horse. Any horse identified with it should be quarantined from the herd because it can spread by touch.
How long is a horse contagious?
If left untreated, a horse infected with ringworm remains contagious for about three to four weeks. However, this period can be significantly reduced with prompt and rigorous treatment. It’s worth noting that even after symptoms have subsided, the horse may still be a carrier of the fungus. Therefore, it’s advised to continue treatment for at least one week after the symptoms have disappeared to ensure the ringworm is completely eradicated and to prevent re-infection. Always remember proactive and persistent treatment is the key to combating this tenacious fungus.
One of the best ways to ensure ringworm isn’t a problem in your herd is by using Fungus Fighter. Fungus Fighter contains natural antibacterial and antifungal ingredients that can be sprayed directly onto affected areas. It also helps speed up the healing process, making it an ideal solution for treating ringworm in horses. And, because it’s free from harsh chemicals, you can use it on even the most sensitive horses without worrying about any adverse effects. So, if you’re looking for an effective solution to treat your equine companion’s ringworm, give Fungus Fighter a try! You won’t be disappointed.
Conclusion
Keeping your horse healthy should always be your top priority. And one of the best ways to achieve this is by being aware of potential health issues that can affect them and taking proactive steps to prevent any illnesses. While ringworm isn’t always easy to treat, following the tips outlined above can help you keep it from spreading and ensure your horse stays healthy for years to come.
No matter what kind of horse you have, making sure they are treated for any potential illnesses is imperative. And, if your horse does develop ringworm, acting quickly and treating it correctly will help you minimize the impact of this troublesome fungus. With Fungus Fighter, you can easily treat and prevent ringworm in horses without worrying about harsh chemicals or long-term effects. So don’t wait to get started – start protecting your horses today!
