Strangles, caused by Streptococcus equi, is one of the most common and highly contagious equine infectious diseases worldwide, causing painful abscessation of lymph nodes in the horse's head and neck.
Strangles causes significant, prolonged suffering. The enlarged, painful lymph nodes around the throat cause difficulty swallowing, eating, and breathing - hence the name 'strangles.' Horses may be unable to lower their heads or eat hay from the ground. The systemic fever causes malaise and anorexia. When nodes rupture, the pain relief is significant but management of open abscesses is unpleasant. Internal bastard strangles causes chronic, debilitating illness with significant welfare implications. Early recognition, appropriate supportive care, and judicious use of antibiotics are key welfare interventions.