Equine Tetanus: Danger In The Dirt

Equine Tetanus

What is it?
Equine Tetanus is a neurological disease of horses caused by the soil bacterium Clostridium tetani. It enters the body through a wound such as a wire cut or puncture. The bacteria produces a toxin that affects the horse's nervous system. Horses are very susceptible to tetanus and it is fatal to more than 80% of afflicted horses.

What are the symptoms?
Signs of the disease include lameness, muscle spasm, inability to eat (lockjaw), protrusion of the third eyelid, distortion of facial muscles and extreme sensitivity to noise.

Where does it come from?
The Clostridium tetani bacteria is found in the soil.

How is it diagnosed?Diagnosis is usually based on clinical signs and a history of injury. The wound may not be obvious or may be healed before signs appear.

How is it treated?
Treatment usually consists of antibiotics, tranquilizers, tetanus toxoid and antitoxin. This condition is difficult to treat and cure, and much nurse care is needed. Keep affected horses in a quiet, darkened stall. Antitoxins, antibiotics and sedatives are usually administered for several weeks.

How is it prevented?
Vaccination is the best prevention. There are two products available. Tetanus antitoxin is administered immediately following a wound and give short term protection. Tetanus Toxoid is a vaccine that gives adequate long term protection but takes up to two weeks to become effective.

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