How to Prevent Ringworm in Horses

Horses are susceptible to ringworm, a fungal skin disease. Ringworm appears as a circular, reddish, crusty sore. It can be difficult to control or prevent, especially if you have more than one horse. Once contacted by ringworm, it can take up to three weeks before any signs show on a horse. This allows time for the ringworm to spread and cause infection among many horses. You should analyze your horse's skin when grooming to make sure there are no signs of a skin disease.

Instructions

    • 1

      Isolate infected horses. If you are introducing a new horse to a few you already have, it is best to keep the new horse separated for three weeks. Monitor the new horse for ringworm along with other possible diseases. If you notice ringworm on any of your horses, separate the infected one from the rest. This will help prevent the uninfected horse from getting ringworm. One of the most common way for horses to get ringworm is direct contact from another horse.

    • 2

      Use individual grooming equipment for each horse. Grooming equipment includes brushes, combs, sponges, clippers and hoof conditioner. This will help prevent spreading ringworm to every horse.

    • 3

      Keep tack for each horse. Tack includes the bridle, girth and boots. Using different tacks for each horse may become expensive, but it will help prevent ringworm.

    • 4

      Separate bedding for each horse. Bedding for horses are made up of tree shavings. Shared bedding among horses will increase the chances of ringworm.