Equine Salmonella

Equine salmonellosis is caused by salmonella bacteria. It's transmitted through contaminated food or water. Horses under stress are more susceptible. The disease can be fatal, especially in young horses. Good management is key in preventing the disease. Salmonella also can affect people.

  1. Risk Factors

    • Overcrowding can stress horses and make them more susceptible to salmonella bacteria overgrowth.

      Most normal horses carry at least one strain of salmonella in their intestines. It's kept in check by the beneficial bacteria in a horse's gut, and by his immune system. Stressing the horse--with surgery, transportation, sudden dietary changes, or excessive antibiotic therapy--can cause the bacterial balance to shift and allow the salmonella to overgrow and cause disease.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms are caused by toxins released by the salmonella bacteria.

      Salmonella can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on the strain and virulence of the bacteria, and on the horse's immune system strength. Fever, lethargy and a loss of appetite may be the first signs, followed by diarrhea.

    Diagnosis

    • For most accurate results, fecal samples should be collected and cultured on at least five different days.

      Diagnosis is made by culturing the bacteria from a fecal sample.

    Treatment

    • Treatment is aimed at supporting the horse and restoring normal intestinal bacteria.

      Intravenous fluids, and sometimes plasma, are given to restore fluid and electrolyte balance in the intestines. Antibiotics might be used if the veterinarian suspects a secondary infection, but aren't a primary treatment because of the high degree of resistance of salmonella to common antibiotics.

    Prevention

    • Anything that can be done to minimize stress will help protect your horse from salmonellosis.

      Salmonella is hardy and adaptable. It can live for months without a host, so environmental contamination is a concern. Recovering horses can shed bacteria for months, so isolating affected horses and thorough disinfecting of the premises is critical (chlorine bleach is effective).