Equine Welfare

Horse Potomac Horse Fever: Recognition and Care

Potomac Horse Fever is a serious bacterial disease in horses causing severe digestive illness, laminitis risk, and significant welfare consequences if untreated.

Key Facts

Caused by Neorickettsia risticii, transmitted when horses ingest infected insects near water sources
Symptoms include fever, depression, reduced gut sounds, diarrhoea, and sometimes founder
The disease occurs most often in summer and early autumn near rivers and streams
Early antibiotic treatment with oxytetracycline is highly effective if started promptly
Vaccination is available and recommended in endemic areas, though protection is not complete

Welfare Considerations

Potomac Horse Fever causes intense suffering through high fever, abdominal pain, and the risk of secondary laminitis. Without prompt treatment, mortality rates reach 30%. Horses in riverside pastures face heightened risk, and owners in endemic regions must remain vigilant for early symptoms to ensure rapid intervention.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate horses annually in endemic regions and discuss risk levels with your veterinarian
Check horses near water sources daily during summer months for early signs of illness
Contact a vet immediately if fever above 38.9 C or diarrhoea develops
Have horses treated promptly with oxytetracycline to prevent progression to laminitis