Tetanus Problems in Horses

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious disease that can affect most mammals. According to Merck Veterinary Manual, horses are one of the most susceptible mammals to tetanus. This is partially due to the environment they live in and also because horses have a propensity for wounding themselves.

  1. Causes

    • Tetanus occurs when Clostridium tetanii, a bacterium found commonly in feces and dirt, enters a horse's body. The bacterium produces the tetanus toxin, which is responsible for the aggressive destruction of the nervous system. Horses are prone to leg and foot injuries, any of which can allow the bacterium to enter the animal's tissue. A horse with stomach ulcers, a common occurrence in some breeds, can also allow ingested bacterium to enter the horse's body tissue and bloodstream.

    Symptoms

    • The tetanus toxin affects the horse's nervous system. The horse may become increasingly sensitivity to sounds, bright light and rapid movement. Tetanus also causes major muscle spasms, leaving the horse with a stiffened gait and trouble turning or backing up. Muscle spasms in the face can cause the animal to become unable to eat or drink and ultimately can lead to respiratory failure. A slightly elevated temperature may be present.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for tetanus is rarely effective for horses. Most animals who contract this bacterial infection will either die or be euthanized. When treatment is attempted early on, it may include heavy courses of antibiotics and tetanus antitoxin. Supportive care such as intravenous fluids, and slinging to hold the horse upright, may be necessary.

    Prevention

    • Horses should be vaccinated regularly against tetanus. The first vaccine should be given when the animal reaches three to four months of age, with a booster shot four weeks later, and then again on a yearly basis. If the animal sustains an injury or has surgery, the vaccine should be boosted immediately following. Removal of metal objects and debris from the animal's living area will assist in keeping the animal injury-free and reducing the opportunity to become infected with the bacterium.