Strangles, also known as equine distemper, is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi. It spreads quickly through barns and events, especially where horses share equipment, stalls, or water sources. The infection causes swelling and abscesses in the lymph nodes—most notably under the jaw—which can make breathing and swallowing painful.
How Strangles Spreads
- Direct horse-to-horse contact
- Contaminated water buckets, feed tubs, or tack
- Handlers moving between horses without proper hygiene
- Aerosolized droplets from coughing or nasal discharge
Signs of Strangles
- Fever (often the first sign)
- Thick yellow nasal discharge
- Swollen lymph nodes, especially under the jaw
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Lethargy, loss of appetite
Treatment & Containment
- Isolate infected horses immediately
- Allow abscesses to rupture and drain naturally (under veterinary guidance)
- Flush abscesses and monitor for complications
- Disinfect all equipment and stall areas daily
- Monitor exposed horses for 21+ days
Prevention Strategies
- Quarantine new arrivals for 2–3 weeks
- Vaccinate if advised by your veterinarian, especially in high-risk barns
- Practice strict hygiene between horses
- Avoid sharing tack, water buckets, and brushes
Why It Matters
Strangles is rarely fatal but extremely disruptive. An outbreak can shut down a barn or show schedule for weeks. Vigilant hygiene, early detection, and proper quarantine protocols are essential to stop this infection in its tracks.