How to treat Strangles?
If you have a horse or pony displaying the symptoms above, isolate it IMMEDIATELY and summon your vet. Your vet will perform a nasal swab to confirm the presence of the Streptococcus equi bacteria. Actual treatment is fairly straightforward a fit and healthy horses immune system can usually fight off the bacteria without help so most vets will recommend that you monitor your horse carefully. Antibiotics can be used but are generally not recommended as they can kill off the useful bacteria, which are used to fight off the Streptococcus. It may be necessary for the vet to lance and drain infected and swollen exterior lymph nodes, but usually the horse is left alone but made as comfortable as possible, making sure plenty of water and feed is available.
