Pigeon Fever Welfare in Horses | Animal Welfare Hub

Pigeon fever from Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis causes painful chest abscesses in horses. Fly control and drainage management prevent most cases.

Key Facts

Pigeon fever causes characteristic swelling of pectoral muscles mimicking a pigeons breast
It is caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis transmitted by flies from soil
California and western US have highest incidence but cases occur wherever flies carry the bacteria
Internal abscesses cause more severe systemic illness than external chest abscesses
Treatment involves allowing external abscesses to mature and drain; internal cases require antibiotics

Welfare Considerations

External pigeon fever abscesses cause significant local pain from distension and pressure. The swelling can reach the size of a grapefruit before rupturing and draining. Internal abscesses involving the abdominal cavity or thorax cause systemic illness with fever, weight loss, and profound debility. Fly control during peak transmission periods, wound care to prevent fly access, and drainage of standing water reducing fly breeding habitat prevents most external cases. Horses with internal abscesses require prolonged antibiotic therapy.

What You Can Do

Implement fly control measures including masks, leg wraps, and repellents during high-risk periods
Drain standing water near horse facilities to reduce fly breeding habitat
Monitor chest area for swelling during late summer and autumn in high-risk regions
Seek veterinary assessment for any horse showing fever, weight loss, or chest swelling