Pigeon Fever in Horses: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
“Dryland distemper” hits hard in arid, drought-prone regions. Here’s how it spreads, what to look for, how treatment and wound care work, and the fly-control and sanitation moves that keep your barn safer.
Causes, Transmission & Regional Risk
Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is a hardy soil bacterium. Horses become infected when flies carry contaminated secretions to breaks in the skin, or when wounds/abrasions contact contaminated surfaces or soil. Outbreaks spike in arid regions and drought conditions when fly pressure and dust increase. The organism can persist in the environment, so barn hygiene and vector control matter.
Clinical Forms & When to Call the Vet
External Abscesses
- Large, warm, painful swellings—often on the chest/pectoral region, ventral abdomen, or flank
- Fever may precede swelling; abscesses mature over days to weeks
- Once mature, they “point,” thin, and drain thick pus
Internal & Limb Forms
- Internal abscesses: fever, weight loss, lethargy, vague colic—need imaging and systemic therapy
- Ulcerative lymphangitis: severe limb swelling, heat, pain, draining tracts along lymphatics; can be prolonged
Call Early Rapid expansion, severe pain/lameness, systemic signs (fever, depression), or any limb involvement → contact your veterinarian immediately.
Diagnosis & What Your Vet May Test
- Cytology/culture or PCR of pus/secretions to confirm the organism
- Ultrasound to map abscess pockets and plan drainage
- Bloodwork +/- serology to support internal-disease suspicions
- Rule-outs: strangles, trauma, neoplasia, other bacterial infections
Treatment, Lancing & Recovery
External Abscess Workflow
- Do not lance early. Warm-pack and wait until the abscess is mature; your vet will incise and establish drainage safely.
- Daily hydrotherapy & flushing per veterinary directions; keep drainage off skin and out of bedding paths.
- NSAIDs & comfort care as prescribed.
When Antibiotics?
- Often used for internal disease or ulcerative lymphangitis (longer courses; rechecks needed).
- External abscesses may resolve with drainage and hygiene alone—your vet will decide based on case specifics.
Timeline External abscess cases commonly improve over weeks; internal/lymphangitis forms can require extended care and follow-up.
Wound Care, Biosecurity & Stall Hygiene
Biosecurity Essentials
- Isolate affected horses; assign dedicated tools and PPE
- Contain and dispose of pus-contaminated bedding and gloves safely
- Disinfect buckets, walls, doors, stocks, and cross-ties routinely
- Do not share thermometers, halters, or grooming tools
Wash down surfaces with SuperClean™ Stall & Trailer Cleaner as part of your sanitation plan.
Topical Support (Vet-Guided)
- Rapid Relief Restorative Cream — thin, water-resistant barrier for intact, healed skin around draining areas once your vet clears topical coverage. Helps protect from rub, sweat, and mud splash.
- Silver Hoof EQ Therapy® — supports bulbs/coronary band moisture near limb wounds; do not apply inside open wounds.
Topicals support skin/hoof environments; they don’t treat bacterial infections. Follow your veterinarian’s wound plan.
Prevention: Fly Control & Environment
Vector Control
- Reduce breeding sites (manure, wet spots); improve airflow and drainage
- Stall during peak fly hours; use fans, screens, and fly gear
- Daily grooming checks to catch skin breaks early
Add Citraquin®
Citraquin® Environmental Defense Spray — 32oz • Natural, water-based protection that riders use against flies, mosquitoes, and ticks.
- See the full Citraquin® collection
- Follow the Citraquin® How-To Guide for coverage patterns
Pigeon Fever — FAQ
Is Pigeon Fever contagious to people or other species?
Transmission to people is rare; wear gloves and avoid contact with pus. Other livestock can be affected by related strains—keep biosecurity tight and consult your veterinarian.
Can I ride or trailer a horse with an abscess?
Avoid work and transport until your veterinarian clears it. Movement can worsen pain and risk spreading drainage.
How do I know an abscess is “mature” enough to lance?
Your vet will guide timing. Signs include a soft “point,” thinning skin, and fluctuant feel. Do not lance at home—incorrect drainage can create deeper tracking and contamination.
Will one case infect my whole barn?
Not if you move fast: isolate, control flies, contain and dispose of drainage, disinfect high-touch areas, and keep tools/gear separated.
How long until my horse is back to normal?
External abscesses commonly resolve over weeks once draining; internal or lymphangitis cases may need extended treatment and rechecks. Your veterinarian will set timelines.
Educational note: This article provides general information and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Always follow your veterinarian’s guidance for lancing, antibiotics, and biosecurity during outbreaks.
