The Difference Between a Sweat Wrap and a Poultice

Farriers and veterinarians use a sweat wrap to trap heat on a horse's inflamed legs. The sweat wrap combines the use of a heating agent or liniment with layers of cellophane, quilting and bandages. On the other hand, a poultice is left exposed to the air as much as possible while keeping the poultice on the horse's limb. The two treatments use different means to treat similar injuries, but can be combined as well.

  1. Poultice Versus Liniment

    • A typical poultice consists of a clay or thick gel base. While horse owners use poultice more often as a soothing or cooling application, manufactures also formulate poultices to provide heat or cool then heat. Liniments bring blood to the surface of the skin, creating a warming or bracing sensation. Though unproven, many believe the extra blood flow helps to remove inflammation faster.

    When to Use a Sweat Wrap Versus a Poultice

    • After a strenuous workout or the sudden appearance of swelling without heat in the area, use a poultice to reduce the swelling and pain. To prevent the poultice from rubbing away and warming up, cover the poultice with a wet paper sack or cotton bandage and then use a breathable wrap that will allow the horse's body heat to escape. Use sweat wraps for arthritic horses and horses that develop swelling in the legs due to stable rest. The heat provided by a sweat wrap loosens arthritic joints and may increase blood flow to the swollen area. However, some veterinarians and horse owners believe the compressive action of the sweat wrap may be the main source of inflammation reduction.

    How to Use a Sweat Wrap with a Poultice

    • Because a sweat wrap traps the horse's body heat, a poultice designed strictly for cooling will lose its cooling action quickly. Consider using a cooling/heating poultice to numb the pain then provide a heating action to loosen muscles and reduce inflammation. By negating the use of cellophane, the quilting and bandages will still trap some of the body heat, allowing the cooling sensation to last longer.

    Things to Consider

    • Consult a veterinarian if swelling is sudden or persists longer than 24 hours. Whether using a sweat wrap or a poultice, apply the treatment in 12-hours on/12-hours off cycles. Do not apply liniments or poultice to an open wound. The ingredients in liniments will cause the wound to sting and inflame. The thick nature of a poultice will clog the wound, preventing weeping and closure.