Equine Thrush: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment | Probiotic Spray | MicroMed
DESCRIPTION: the keratin-loving bacteria Spherophorus neaophorus, and the sheep foot rot organism fusobacterium necrophorumis are usually responsible.
These organisms attack the softened tissues of the frog, causing it to rot.
The predisposing factors can be :
- Imbalance of microbes on the skin and hooves
- Unhygienic environment
- Overgrown or contracted hooves
- The wearing of Hoof Pads
- Inadequate exercise
- Previous history of Lameness
SYMPTOMS; It is usual for a horse to be free from discomfort with milder cases of thrush however there may be mild discomfort on palpation around the frog and bulbs of the heel. There can be a rotting noxious odor and blackish ooze found upon the frog, and this is commonly referred to as thrush.
TREATMENT: traditional treatment involves trimming away the loose, diseased frog tissue and applying an antibacterial such as dilute bleach. Veterinarians often follow up with an applications of a mild astringent, such as Betadine®, or another anti-thrush product.
MicroMed Note:
Re-establishment of the beneficial and commensal microbes is indicated as soon as possible, to prevent continuing bacterial migration and prevent re-occurrence. We recommend MicroMed Spray-on Probiotic from the Acute Care range for daily use for a month on your horse, then a spray every time the hooves are cleaned.