Ringworm in Horses: Symptoms & Treatment Guide

Ringworm in horses, also known scientifically as dermatophytosis, is a fungal infection that can spread rapidly among equines if not recognised and treated promptly. Early identification of symptoms is essential to prevent contagion among horses on yards or in fields. This article provides a clear overview of how to spot ringworm, understand its impact, and implement effective treatment methods immediately after diagnosis.

Symptoms & Signs to Watch Out For

Ringworm often starts as small, circular, scaly patches on the horse's skin, often where tack sits, such as the girth, face, neck, and flanks. The affected areas typically show:

• Distinct circular lesions with raised, scaly borders resembling rings.
• Hair loss within these patches, leaving bald spots which may appear brittle or broken.
• Irritation causing itching and discomfort; horses may rub or scratch these spots relentlessly.
• Crusting or scaling, and in some cases, secondary bacterial infections may cause pustules or crusts.

Horses with ringworm may also exhibit behavioural changes due to itchiness, including restlessness and difficulty focusing during riding. In early stages, a horse’s coat may look coarse, dull and unkempt, which can be confused with other conditions like rain scald, so professional veterinary diagnosis is important.

Confirming the Condition with Your Vet

If you suspect ringworm, you should isolate the horse immediately to avoid spreading the infection to other animals or people. Your veterinarian can take skin scrapings or hair samples for laboratory analysis to confirm ringworm. Accurate diagnosis is critical to tailor the treatment effectively.

Step-by-Step Treatment for Ringworm in Horses

Step 1: Prepare the Affected Area

After your vet confirms ringworm, carefully clip the hair around infected patches, typically beginning with the girth area. This allows the treatment to reach the skin directly and removes contaminated hair and skin cells.

Step 2: Clean and Disinfect

• Gently cleanse clipped areas to remove dead skin and hair.
• Apply a specifically formulated antifungal wash such as Betadine, available from vets or reputable horse suppliers, and leave on for at least 10 minutes.
• Rinse off with a mixture of two tablespoons of white vinegar diluted in water to ensure the antifungal agent is fully washed away.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly

Towel dry or use a hairdryer to eliminate any moisture, as damp skin can encourage fungal growth and delay healing.

Step 4: Apply Antifungal Dressings

Dress the lesions with antifungal ointments or creams prescribed or recommended by your vet, applying treatments daily for at least one week or until the infection clears.

Step 5: Stable and Equipment Hygiene

Disinfect the horse’s stable thoroughly, paying attention to wood surfaces where fungal spores can remain dormant for years. Using specialised wood preservatives can help eliminate fungal spores. Also wash bedding, tack, and grooming gear regularly with suitable disinfectants.

Step 6: Personal Protection and Prevention

Always wear gloves and protective clothing when treating your horse, and wash these items thoroughly or dispose of single-use gloves to prevent spreading the fungus to other horses or humans. Wash your clothes afterward and maintain good hygiene practices. Quarantine affected horses until fully recovered to prevent contagion.

Conclusion

Ringworm in horses is a contagious fungal infection that, while not usually serious if treated early, causes significant discomfort to affected horses and risks rapid spread if ignored. Prompt veterinary diagnosis, effective topical treatment, and strict hygiene practices are essential. Isolate infected horses quickly, use antifungal therapies such as specifically formulated equine treatments, and disinfect environments to ensure full recovery and prevent recurrence.