Very Common
Less Common
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Crusty Growths around Anus
Summary
Crusty growths around a horse's anus are not uncommon, are usually caused by a virus, and usually do not cause problems.
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Code Yellow
Contact Your Vet at Your Convenience for an Appointment
your role
What To Do
Evaluate the size, shape and appearance of these growths on a regular basis and have your vet monitor them during routine healthcare appointments.However, if there is a major or sudden increase in their number or growth rate, if they become "angry" (red or inflamed), or if they appear to cause your horse pain or discomfort, talk to your vet about positively diagnosing, treating or removing them. Sometimes these can be caused or made worse by pinworm infestation.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Your vet may biopsy the area to determine the tissue type to determine correct treatment. Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen may work to remove wart-like growths here but diagnosis should be made first. Treatment for pinworms and local anti-inflammatory therapy may help with the signs.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- How long have you noticed this?
- Has the problem seemed to worsen over time?
- What treatments have you tried and how did they work?
- Do you notice skin lesions elsewhere?
- What are the results of the Whole Horse Exam (WHE)?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
Very Common
