Leptospirosis & Equine Recurrent Uveitis in Horses: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment
Leptospirosis isn’t picky about barns. Where there’s moisture and wildlife, there’s risk—and the aftermath can include equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), the most common cause of equine blindness. Here’s a no-nonsense guide to what’s happening, what to watch for, and the hygiene habits that stack the odds in your favor.
Leptospira 101: Bacteria & Disease Process
Leptospira are spiral-shaped bacteria that thrive in stagnant water, puddles, and moist soil. Wildlife and rodents can shed bacteria in urine. Horses pick it up when organisms contact mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) or enter through skin cuts and abrasions.
After entry, bacteria may travel through the bloodstream and localize in organs such as the kidneys and the eyes. Some horses develop systemic illness (fever, malaise) while others show few signs until uveitis—inflammation inside the eye—appears. In susceptible horses, uveitis can become recurrent (ERU), with periodic flare-ups that require fast attention.
Clinical Signs & Diagnosis
Acute leptospirosis
- Fever, lethargy, decreased appetite
- Swollen or painful eyes; conjunctival redness
- Jaundice (yellow gums/mucous membranes)
- In broodmares, pregnancy loss can occur
Early uveitis
- Cloudy or bluish eye appearance
- Tearing, squinting, light sensitivity
- Rubbing the face; head shy; eyelid swelling
Treatment & Management
Veterinary care is essential. Treatment for leptospirosis typically involves antibiotics as directed by your veterinarian. Managing uveitis often includes anti-inflammatory therapy (e.g., NSAIDs) and, when prescribed by the vet, topical ophthalmic medications to control inflammation and pain.
Comfort measures you can start today (alongside vet care)
- Dark, fly-free rest: Stable the horse in a dim or darkened stall to reduce light exposure. Use a UV-protective fly mask during turnout.
- Cool compresses (near, not on, the eye): Apply gently to surrounding areas to soothe puffiness. Avoid direct pressure on the globe.
- Targeted muscle relief (face & jaw): On clean, intact skin well away from the eye, owners use Draw It Out® 16oz Gel to ease facial tension that builds from squinting.
- Skin comfort around irritated areas: On clean, intact skin and with care to keep at least 1 inch away from the eye, apply Rapid Relief Restorative Cream for smooth, non-greasy comfort between veterinary treatments.
Important: Never place any product into the eye or onto the eyelid margins unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you. Follow all label directions and your vet’s dosing schedule. Keep the environment clean and fly-free to reduce the risk of secondary issues.
Prevention & Barn Hygiene
- Water management: Provide fresh, clean water. Scrub and refill troughs and buckets frequently. Drain or block access to stagnant water and muddy low spots.
- Surface hygiene: Clean stalls, mats, aisles, feeders, and trailer floors with SuperClean™ to remove organic residues and urine contamination. Keep bedding dry; fix leaks promptly.
- Pest & insect control: Seal feed bins and reduce rodent attractants. Use Citraquin® Environmental Defense Spray to cut fly pressure that irritates eyes.
- Pasture rotation & drainage: Rotate turnout to avoid chronically muddy areas. Improve drainage around gates and waterers.
- UV eye protection: For horses prone to uveitis, use UV-blocking fly masks and schedule regular ophthalmic check-ups with your veterinarian.
- Vaccination discussion: Ask your vet whether leptospirosis vaccination is appropriate for your region and risk profile.
Related Resources
- Sunburn & Photosensitivity in Horses — how UV and plants can trigger skin reactions.
- ShowBarn Secret® Grooming — gentle face-safe shampoos/conditioners to clean crusts and keep skin fresh (rinse thoroughly).
- Draw It Out® 16oz Gel — sensation-free, show-aware muscle support.
- Rapid Relief Restorative Cream — smooth comfort on clean, intact skin around irritated areas.
Quick FAQs
Is leptospirosis contagious between horses?
It’s a bacterial disease shed in urine by wildlife and sometimes domestic animals. Horses typically become exposed from the environment (water, soil), not from casual horse-to-horse contact. Good hygiene lowers risk.
Can ERU be cured?
ERU is often a long-term, recurrent condition. Many horses can be managed successfully with prompt veterinary care, eye protection, and barn hygiene. Your vet will tailor a plan.
Should I ride a horse during an eye flare?
No—eye pain and light sensitivity can compromise safety. Rest the horse in a dark, fly-free space and follow your veterinarian’s guidance.
What’s the most important early action for a cloudy eye?
Call your veterinarian immediately. Early treatment helps protect comfort and vision. Keep the horse in a darker stall and avoid dust and flies.
