LUMPS BUMPS

Over their lifetimes, horses present with an array of lumps and bumps on various occasions. At times the lump or bump will seemingly appear suddenly out of nowhere, or it may develop slowly and remain for years without change. The behaviour and clinical picture of the lump/bump will determine whether it needs further investigation and attention or whether space and time are the best course of action.

Our horses’ legs are prone to the odd bump, but when is a swelling nothing more than a blemish – and when is it time to call the vet? We’ve got advice to help you spot, and deal with, these lumps.

Splints are a common condition affecting horses. A splint is a bony enlargement that forms on the splint bone, one of two small bones that run along the back of the cannon bone in the horse’s lower leg.

Causes: n Overloading of the splint bone due to excessive stress, such as repetitive concussion or strain during highintensity exercise. n Poor conformation, such as narrow or offset cannons, can increase the risk of splints. n Trauma to the splint bone or surrounding tissues.

Signs and Symptoms: n Swelling along the inside or outside of the canon bone. n Heat and tenderness in the affected area. n Lameness, particularly when the horse is in motion or during flexion of the affected leg. n A hard, bony enlargement can sometimes be felt on the splint bone, as seen in the right-hand image.

Diagnosis: n A veterinarian will physically examine the affected leg, assessing the splint’s location, size, and severity. n X-rays may be taken to evaluate the extent of the bony enlargement and rule out any other potential underlying issues.

Rest: Providing adequate rest and reducing the horse’s workload is essential to allow the splint to heal. This may involve a period confined to a stable or limited turnout.

Cold Therapy: Applying cold therapy, such as ice or cold water, to the affected area can help reduce swelling and inflammation.

Supportive Bandaging: Applying a supportive bandage or splint boots may provide additional support and protection to the splint area.

Veterinarians may prescribe NSAIDs to help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

Controlled Exercise: Gradual reintroduction of exercise, under the guidance of a veterinarian, can help promote healing and prevent re-injury.

Surgical Intervention: In some cases, when splints are large, painful, or interfere with the horse’s performance, surgical splint removal may be recommended. This is typically considered a last-resort option.

It’s important to note that splints are usually a selflimiting condition, which tends to resolve over time with appropriate management and rest. However, in some cases, the bony enlargement may persist even after the horse has recovered, but it generally does not cause significant issues or lameness.

If you suspect your horse has a splint or notice any signs of lameness or swelling, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your horse’s specific needs.

Thoroughpin is a condition that can affect horses and is characterised by swelling and distension in the hollow area inside the hock joint. The condition is named ‘thoroughpin’ due to the appearance of a swelling that can extend from one side of the hock to the other, giving the appearance of a ‘pin’ passing through the joint.

n The horse may sometimes exhibit lameness or discomfort, especially when the swelling is significant or associated with an underlying condition.

n A veterinarian will physically examine the horse, assessing the swelling and its characteristics.

n X-rays or ultrasound may be used to evaluate the hock joint and surrounding structures, ruling out other potential swelling causes.

In many cases, a thoroughpin is considered a cosmetic issue and does not cause significant lameness or interfere with the horse’s performance. Therefore, treatment may not be necessary

Causes: n Thoroughpin is primarily caused by the accumulation of synovial fluid within the sheath of the deep digital flexor tendon as it passes through the hock joint. n It can be associated with conformational abnormalities of the hock, such as sickle or cow hocks. n Trauma or excessive strain to the hock joint can also contribute to the development of the thoroughpin.

Signs and Symptoms: n Swelling and distension of the area on the inside of the hock joint. n The swelling may extend across the hock joint, appearing as a bulge or fluid-filled pouch. n The site may be soft and fluctuant when palpated.

Windgalls, also known as windpuffs or winddrops, are a common condition affecting horses. They refer to the swelling or distension of the fluid-filled sheaths or bursae around tendons and joints in the horse’s legs.

Causes: n Windgalls are typically caused by an accumulation of synovial fluid within the sheaths or bursae surrounding the tendons and joints. n Repetitive strain or stress on the legs, particularly during high-intensity exercise or strenuous work, can contribute to developing windgalls. n Other factors, such as ageing, trauma, or inflammation, can also contribute to their formation. n Cold therapy or the application of topical anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce swelling and provide temporary relief. n The veterinarian may recommend draining the fluid from the thoroughpin in severe cases where the swelling is significant and causing discomfort. However, it’s important to note that a thoroughpin often reoccurs after drainage. n Corrective shoeing, supportive wraps, or boots may help support the hock joint and alleviate some symptoms. n If the underlying cause of the thoroughpin is conformational, such as specific hock abnormalities, management and training practices should be adjusted to minimise stress on the joint.

If the horse experiences discomfort or lameness, the underlying cause of the thoroughpin should be addressed. This may involve treating any concurrent joint disease, such as arthritis.

Conformational abnormalities, such as straight or post-legged conformation, may increase the likelihood of windgalls; here are some examples:

Upright Pasterns: Horses with upright pasterns have a more vertical alignment of the pastern bones, which can increase strain on the fetlock joint. This increased stress can contribute to the development of windgalls.

Long, Weak Pasterns : Horses with long, weak pasterns may lack the necessary support and shock absorption in the fetlock joint. This can lead to increased strain on the joint, making the horse more prone to windgalls.

Weak Ligament and Tendon Structures: Horses with conformational weaknesses in their ligament and tendon structures may have reduced stability and support around the fetlock joint. This can result in increased movement and fluid accumulation, leading to the formation of windgalls.

Overweight or Overworked Horses: Poor conformation, excessive weight, or strenuous exercise can strain the fetlock joints. The increased stress on the joint can contribute to the development or worsening of windgalls.

It’s important to note that windgalls can also occur in horses with good conformation due to other factors such as exercise, genetics, or joint inflammation. However, when poor conformation is present, it can create an environment where windgalls are more likely to occur or persist.

If a horse has windgalls associated with poor conformation, it’s crucial to address the underlying conformational issues, if possible, to minimise further strain on the fetlock joints.

n Swelling or fluid-filled swellings can be felt or seen around the fetlock joint, particularly on the back of the horse’s leg.

n Windgalls are often soft and compressible when palpated.

n They typically do not cause lameness or discomfort unless there is an underlying issue or excessive swelling.

n Windgalls are usually diagnosed through a physical examination by a veterinarian, evaluating the presence, size, and location of the swellings.

n Additional diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound or x-rays, may be performed if there is concern about an underlying injury or joint condition.

Treatment and Management: n Windgalls are often considered a cosmetic issue and do not require specific treatment. n Rest and reduced exercise may help reduce swelling and prevent further fluid accumulation. n Cold therapy or the application of topical treatments, such as liniments or gels, may provide temporary relief and help minimise swelling. n Supportive measures, such as the use of supportive wraps or boots, may offer additional support to the affected area. n In cases where windgalls are associated with an underlying injury or joint condition, the primary cause should be addressed. This may involve veterinary intervention, such as joint injections or other therapies, to manage inflammation and improve joint health.

If you have concerns about windgalls or if they are accompanied by lameness or other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for a proper evaluation and rule out any underlying issues. If you have concerns about windgalls or if they are accompanied by lameness or other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian for a proper evaluation and rule out any underlying issues.

It's important to note that windgalls may come and go, appearing larger after periods of exercise or strenuous work and decreasing with rest.

Hives, also known as urticaria or allergic dermatitis, can occur in horses as in humans. Hives are characterised by raised, swollen, and often itchy bumps or welts on the horse’s skin.

Hives in horses are typically an allergic reaction triggered by various factors, including:

1. Ingestion of specific allergens, such as certain types of feed, plants, or medications.

2. Exposure to environmental allergens, such as pollen, mould spores, or insect bites.

3. Contact with irritants, including certain bedding materials, grooming products, or chemicals.

4. Insect hypersensitivity, such as allergies to mosquito bites or insecticides.

n Raised, swollen, and often itchy bumps or welts on the horse’s skin.

n The bumps may vary in size and can merge to form larger swelling areas.

n The affected areas may appear red or pale, and the surrounding skin may be warm to the touch.

n The horse may exhibit signs of discomfort, such as rubbing, scratching, or biting at the affected areas.

n In severe cases, hives can be accompanied by systemic signs, including respiratory distress, swelling of the face or limbs, or signs of anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction).

The treatment and management of hives in horses depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the reaction. Here are some general guidelines: n Remove the triggering factor, if possible. For example, if a specific feed causes hives, discontinue its use. n Provide relief from itching and discomfort by using cold compresses or applying soothing topical products, such as calamine lotion or aloe vera gel. n Consult a veterinarian who may recommend antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other medications to alleviate the allergic reaction. n If the horse is experiencing severe systemic signs or signs of anaphylaxis, immediate veterinary attention is necessary. In such cases, epinephrine may be administered.

A ‘pressure bump’ on a horse caused by a saddle could refer to a localised area of swelling or thickened skin that develops due to prolonged pressure or friction from the saddle. This can occur if the saddle does not fit correctly or if there is excessive pressure on a specific area. Here are some points to consider regarding pressure bumps caused by saddles:

1. Saddle Fit: A correctly fitting saddle is crucial to avoid pressure points and discomfort for the horse. A saddle that is too narrow, too wide, or has an incorrect tree size can create excessive pressure on specific areas of the horse’s back, resulting in pressure bumps.

2. Tree Points or Panels: Improperly designed or worn-out saddle tree points or panels can cause localised pressure, forming pressure bumps. Tree points too long or panels that do not distribute the rider’s weight evenly can exacerbate the issue.

3. Saddle Pad or Blanket: The type and thickness of the saddle pad or blanket used can also contribute to pressure bumps. Pads that are too thick or poorly fitted may create additional pressure on specific areas of the horse’s back.

Preventing hives in horses involves identifying and avoiding the triggering factors. Here are some preventive measures: n Keep a record of any previous episodes of hives to identify potential allergens. n Gradually introduce new feeds or medications to monitor the horse’s reaction. n Minimise exposure to known environmental allergens, such as keeping the horse indoors during peak pollen seasons or using fly sheets and insect repellents. n Use hypoallergenic bedding materials and avoid using harsh or irritating grooming products.

If your horse develops hives or if you suspect an allergic reaction, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian. They can help determine the cause, provide appropriate treatment, and offer guidance on managing future episodes.

Choose Low-Dust Bedding: Opt for bedding materials that have low levels of dust, such as dust-extracted straw or dust-free wood shavings. Avoid using bedding materials that are known to be high in dust content.

4. Rider Position: How the rider sits in the saddle can impact pressure distribution. Poor rider balance or positioning can increase pressure on specific points, potentially leading to the development of pressure bumps.

Thick saddle pads or cloths can potentially cause pressure spots or points of excessive pressure on the horse’s back. When the padding is too thick, it can create an uneven distribution of weight and pressure, leading to discomfort, soreness, or even the development of pressure sores. They can also result in diminished sensitivity and communication.

1. Ensure Proper Saddle Fit: Work with a knowledgeable saddle fitter to ensure the saddle properly fits your horse. This includes checking the saddle tree size, panel shape, and overall balance.

2. Regular Evaluation: Regularly assess your horse’s back for signs of pressure bumps, rubs, or soreness. Catching issues early can help prevent them from worsening.

3. Saddle Pad or Blanket Selection: Choose a pad or blanket that provides adequate cushioning and promotes even weight distribution. It should be appropriately sized and shaped for your saddle and horse.

4. Saddle Pad Adjustments: Ensure the pad is correctly

positioned under the saddle and does not bunch up or create additional pressure points. Buy two of the same saddle pads, so you have precisely the same for at home and also in competitions to avoid a different saddle fit.

5. Rider Position and Balance: Develop good riding skills and maintain proper balance and position in the saddle. This helps to distribute the rider’s weight more evenly across the horse’s back.

If your horse develops pressure bumps or shows signs of discomfort, it’s important to address the issue promptly. Consult a qualified saddle fitter to ensure the correct fit and make necessary adjustments or changes to prevent further problems.

n While melanomas can develop at any age, they are more commonly seen in horses aged eight to ten years.

Locations and behaviour: n Melanomas in grey horses tend to be slow-growing and have benign or indolent behaviour. They usually remain localised to the skin or underlying tissues and rarely metastasise (spread) to other organs.

However, some melanomas can become aggressive or invasive, especially if they are large, ulcerated, or located in areas that impede normal bodily functions.

Impact on health:

Small, isolated melanomas do not cause clinical signs and may not significantly impact a horse’s health or performance. Melanomas in specific locations, such as around the anus or tail base, can cause discomfort, interfere with defecation or urination, or affect tail mobility.

Like scars, tumours can appear anywhere on your horse’s body. If you have a grey horse, pay close attention to his rectum, tail, and sheath area, as this is where melanomas often appear. Melanomas are most commonly seen in grey horses. Grey horses have a genetic predisposition to developing melanomas, tumours arising from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin and other tissues.

Prevalence and characteristics: n Grey horses have a higher incidence of melanomas than horses of other coat colours. It is estimated that more than 80% of grey horses over the age of 15 will develop melanomas. n Melanomas in grey horses typically appear as dark, pigmented nodules or masses. They can vary in size, texture, and location on the body.

Treatment options for melanomas in grey horses include surgical removal, cryosurgery (freezing), laser therapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Treatment choice depends on factors such as the melanoma’s size, location, and behaviour.

It is essential to consult a veterinarian experienced in managing melanomas to determine the most appropriate course of action for each case.

Treating sarcoids around the eye requires careful consideration due to the sensitive and delicate nature of the eye. It’s crucial to involve a veterinarian to evaluate the specific case and determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Consult with a veterinarian experienced in equine dermatology to assess the sarcoid’s size, location, and overall characteristics. They will determine the best course of action based on the individual case.

Sarcoids are the most common skin tumours found in horses. They are a type of fibroblastic skin tumour that can vary in appearance and behaviour.

The exact cause of sarcoids is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the bovine papillomavirus (BPV) or a similar virus. Sarcoids are not known to be hereditary, but certain factors may increase the risk of their development, including: n Weakened immune system. n Trauma or irritation to the skin. n Genetic predisposition.

Sarcoids can be present in various forms, and their appearance can differ significantly. The different types of sarcoids include:

1. Nodular Sarcoid: These are firm, round, or irregularly shaped tumours that can vary in size. They often have a rough or warty surface and can occur anywhere on the horse’s body.

2. Verrucous Sarcoid: These sarcoids have a wart-like appearance and are typically flat, raised, and rough.

3. Fibroblastic Sarcoid: This type of sarcoid is characterised by rapidly growing, fleshy masses that can be ulcerated and prone to bleeding.

4. Occult Sarcoid: Occult sarcoids are flat and hairless areas of skin that may resemble scars or plaques. They can be challenging to detect and may become more aggressive over time.

Diagnosing sarcoids is typically based on their characteristic appearance and behaviour. However, in some cases, a veterinarian may perform a biopsy or other tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment options for sarcoids include: n Surgical Excision : Surgical removal of sarcoids may be an option for some instances, but recurrence is possible. n Cryosurgery: Freezing the sarcoid with liquid nitrogen to destroy the tumour cells. n Laser Therapy: Using laser treatment to destroy the sarcoid tissue selectively. n Topical Treatments: Various creams, ointments, or medications may be applied directly to the sarcoid to promote regression. n Immunotherapy: In some cases, immunostimulant injections may activate the immune system and target the tumour cells. n Radiation Therapy: This option may be considered for more prominent, aggressive, or difficult-to-treat sarcoids.

It’s important to note that the behaviour and response to the treatment of sarcoids can vary widely among individual horses. Recurrence is possible even after successful treatment, and some sarcoids may require long-term management. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian with experience treating sarcoids to determine the best course of action for an affected horse.

Bog Spavin refers to the swelling and distension of the joint capsule in the hock joint. It typically involves the tibiotarsal joint, the largest joint in the horse’s hock. Here are some critical points about bog spavin:

n Excessive stress or strain on the hock joint due to activities such as jumping, galloping, or abrupt turns.

n Trauma or injury to the joint.

n Conformational abnormalities, such as sickle or cow hocks, put extra stress on the joint.

n Concurrent joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, may contribute to the development of bog spavin.

n Swelling and distension of the joint capsule, often visible on the inside or front of the hock joint.

n The swelling may be soft or fluctuant when palpated.

n In some cases, the horse may exhibit lameness or stiffness, particularly when the swelling is significant or associated with underlying joint disease.

n A veterinarian will perform a physical examination, evaluating the hock joint for signs of swelling and assessing the horse’s gait.

n X-rays or other imaging techniques may be used to evaluate the integrity of the joint structures and identify any underlying causes.

n Rest and controlled exercise may be recommended to allow for healing and prevent further joint stress.

n Cold therapy or the application of topical anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce swelling and provide temporary relief.

n In some cases, joint injections with anti-inflammatory medications or regenerative therapies may be utilised to manage inflammation and improve joint function.

n Corrective shoeing, supportive wraps, or boots may help support the hock joint and alleviate symptoms.

n Surgical intervention may be considered in severe cases or those unresponsive to conservative management.

Ringbone in horses refers to a painful condition characterised by new bone growth. It affects either the pastern joint (“high ringbone”) or the coffin joint (“low ringbone”).

The swelling can be seen and felt at the two superficial outpouchings of the joint capsule; at the front towards the inside and on the outside just below and infront of the point of hock. If one swelling is compressed this usually causes the other swelling to enlarge temporarily and vice versa. Bog spavin can occur in one or both hind legs.

Ringbone is a common condition in horses that affects the bones in the lower leg, specifically the pastern or coffin joint. The development of bony growths or exostoses around the affected joint characterises it.

1. High Ringbone (Proximal Interphalangeal Joint): This type of ringbone affects the joint between the long and short pastern bones. It is located higher up on the leg and is generally associated with more severe lameness.

2. Low Ringbone (Distal Interphalangeal Joint): Low ringbone affects the joint between the short pastern bone and the coffin bone). It is located more down on the leg and is typically associated with less severe lameness.

Causes: The exact cause of the ringbone is not fully understood, but it is believed to be multifactorial. Contributing factors may include:

1. Genetics: Some horses may be predisposed to developing ringbone due to conformation or genetic factors.

2. Conformation and Stress: Conformational abnormalities, such as upright pasterns or long-toe/low-heel hoof conformation, can increase stress on the joints and contribute to ringbone development. Repetitive stress impact, or excessive strain on the joint, can lead to the formation of bony growths.

n Lameness: Horses with ringbone may exhibit varying degrees of lameness, depending on the severity of the condition and the joint affected.

n Stiffness: Affected horses may show stiffness, especially during warm-up or after rest.

n Swelling and Heat: Swelling and heat can be observed around the affected joint, particularly during flare-ups.

n Restricted Range of Motion: Reduced flexibility and range of motion in the affected joint may be evident.

n Diagnosis of ringbone is typically based on clinical signs, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound, to assess the bony changes in the affected joint.

n Treatment of ringbone aims to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and slow down the progression of the disease.

A combination of the following may be required: n Rest and reduced workload to alleviate stress on the affected joint. n Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation. n Joint injections with corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid to provide localised relief. n Physical therapy, including controlled exercise, to maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness. n Corrective hoof trimming and shoeing to improve foot balance and reduce stress on the joint. n Surgical intervention may be considered in severe cases, such as arthrodesis (fusion) of the affected joint.

It’s important to note that the management and prognosis for ringbone can vary depending on the severity, location, and response to treatment.

Evaluate the size, location, and sever ity of the haematoma. The haematoma pictured required veterinary assistance. If it is a small haematoma and the horse appears comfortable, you may be able to manage it with basic first aid. However, if the haematoma is large, causing significant discomfort or there are signs of other complications, it is best to call the veterinarian.

Haematoma in horses refers to a localised collection of blood outside blood vessels, typically caused by trauma or injury. A haematoma can occur in various areas of a horse’s body, including muscles, skin, and internal organs.

n Trauma: Haematomas commonly result from blunt force trauma, such as kicks, falls, or collisions with objects. The impact causes blood vessels to rupture, leading to bleeding and the formation of a haematoma.

n Surgical Procedures: Haematomas can occasionally occur as a complication of surgical procedures, particularly if blood vessels are damaged or excessive bleeding during the surgery.

n Needle Injections: In rare cases, haematoma formation may occur at the site of needle injections if a blood vessel is inadvertently punctured.

n Swelling: Haematomas often appear as a swelling or lump at the site of the injury. The swelling may be warm to the touch and may vary in size depending on the severity of the haematoma.

n Discolouration: Haematomas can cause skin discolouration, turning it dark or purple in the affected area.

n Pain and Sensitivity: Horses with haematomas may exhibit discomfort or pain when pressure is applied to the affected area.

Treatment: n Cold Therapy: Applying cold therapy, such as ice packs or cold water soaks, to the haematoma site can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the early stages. n Rest and Restricted Movement: Resting and limiting the horse’s movement can help prevent further trauma to the affected area and allow the body to heal. n Veterinary Examination: It is essential to have a veterinarian evaluate the haematoma to assess its severity, rule out any underlying injuries, and determine the appropriate course of treatment.

n Drainage or Aspiration: Sometimes, a veterinarian may need to drain or aspirate the haematoma to alleviate pressure and facilitate healing. A qualified professional should only perform this procedure to minimise the risk of complications.

n Supportive Care: Depending on the size and location of the haematoma, your veterinarian may prescribe antiinflammatory medications or provide other supportive care to manage pain and aid in the healing process.

It’s important to note that larger or more severe haematomas may require more extensive treatment, and the recovery time can vary depending on the individual horse and the specific circumstances of the haematoma. Always consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for this condition. advisable to consult a veterinarian. These symptoms may indicate an underlying infection, organ dysfunction, or other systemic issues.

Ventral oedema, also known as swelling on the underside of a horse’s abdomen or lower belly, can be caused by various factors, including fluid retention, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions. While mild ventral oedema may not always require immediate veterinary attention, there are situations where it is advisable to call a veterinarian. Here are some guidelines on when to call a vet for ventral oedema: n Sudden or Severe Swelling: If ventral oedema develops rapidly or is accompanied by significant swelling, it is essential to contact a veterinarian. Sudden and severe swelling could indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires immediate evaluation and treatment. n Pain or Discomfort: If the horse shows signs of pain or discomfort, such as reluctance to move, sensitivity to touch, or signs of colic, it is essential to seek veterinary assistance promptly. These symptoms may suggest an underlying condition that needs professional attention. n Signs of Systemic Illness: If the horse displays other signs of systemic illness, such as fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, or abnormal behaviour, it is n Progressive or Persistent Swelling: If ventral oedema continues to worsen or does not resolve over time, it is recommended to have a veterinarian assess the situation. Prolonged or progressive swelling may indicate an ongoing problem that requires diagnosis and appropriate treatment. n Associated Abnormalities: If ventral oedema is accompanied by other abnormal signs, such as difficulty breathing, abnormal urination, or changes in manure consistency, contacting a veterinarian is crucial. These additional symptoms could suggest a more significant health issue requiring veterinary intervention.

If you see oedema on your horse’s belly, observe the horse's behaviour and overall condition. Note any signs of distress, discomfort, or changes in behaviour. If the horse appears to be in pain, shows signs of colic, or displays other abnormal symptoms, it is crucial to act quickly and call a veterinarian. If you have a marker, draw around the swelling, so you can see if it is reducing or enlarging while you wait for the veterinarian to arrive.

It’s important to remember that every case is unique, and the severity and circumstances of ventral oedema can vary. If you are unsure whether to call a veterinarian, it is generally better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice. A veterinarian can evaluate the situation, diagnose it correctly, and recommend the most appropriate course of action for your horse’s condition. Prompt identification and management of the underlying cause are vital for the horse’s well-being.