What is strangles?
Strangles is also known as Distemper and Barn Fever is properly known as Streptococcus equi. It is a highly contagious bacterial disease mostly seen in young horses especially those in contact with a large number of others. Symptoms are most visibly a thick constant discharge from the nostrils coupled with an enlarging of the lymph nodes below the jaw and an audible rasping noise as abscesses in the throat restrict the free passage of air. It is this latter symptom that gives rise to its common name. It does cause a lot of stress and pain to infected horses and can be fatal. Is it preventable? Yes. A vaccination is available that should be given to broodmares 3-6 weeks prior to foaling. In addition, foals should be vaccinated at 2-3 months of age and again at 6 months. Adult horses (other than broodmares) dont require vaccination as this disease is normally restricted to younger horses, but if your horse is in contact with a known Strangles case you should seek your vets advice as to w
