Less Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Bed Sores, Fetlocks or Hocks
Summary
Scabby wounds on the front of the fetlocks and outsides of the hocks are usually "bed sores" that are caused by recurring abrasion when a horse lies down on hard ground or rough bedding.
Classically this is seen in dry lot situations on abrasive gravel or hard dirt. These sores are usually not serious but in some cases can become infected or they can grow to a large size from repeatedly being broken open. In rare cases, a fetlock bed sore can break into the joint, causing a serious joint infection.
The first task is managing the existing wounds. The second is trying to prevent additional wounds by changes in management. If these wounds are severe, worsening, non-healing, or if your horse is lame, you may need to take more aggressive action and will need to involve your vet.
Classically this is seen in dry lot situations on abrasive gravel or hard dirt. These sores are usually not serious but in some cases can become infected or they can grow to a large size from repeatedly being broken open. In rare cases, a fetlock bed sore can break into the joint, causing a serious joint infection.
The first task is managing the existing wounds. The second is trying to prevent additional wounds by changes in management. If these wounds are severe, worsening, non-healing, or if your horse is lame, you may need to take more aggressive action and will need to involve your vet.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Good with change in management or protection with bandages.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
Skills I Might Need
I might need these skills if my horse has this diagnosis.
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- What is the best way to protect my horse from these sores?
- Can I apply fly repellent ointment to the sores?
- Do you recommend a bed sore or hock boot to protect the area?
Prevention
Provide soft bedding or grass for horses to bed down on. Periodically add soft, loose, clean topsoil if possible. You can also protect your horse's fetlocks or hocks with protective wraps or boots.
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health
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