Fistulous Withers in Horses

Seek veterinary advice if you suspect this disease.

Fistulous withers is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterised by pus-filled wounds and swelling on the horse’s withers. The swelling is called a fistula and the withers are the highest part of the horse’s back.
The main causes of Fistulous Withers are: Infection – mainly through the organism Brucella Abortus found near cattle, parasites, trauma to the area or ill-fitting saddles, overloading or badly balanced loads.

Symptoms of Fistulous Withers in Horses

Common in

Treatment of Fistulous Withers in Horses

The most successful treatment is complete dissection and removal of the infected bursa together with antibiotics effective against Brucella organisms.

Prevention of Fistulous Withers in Horses

Prompt attention to any injuries to the withers area will help prevent infections that cause fistulous withers. Horses should not be pastured in areas where infected cattle have been for at least three months after the cattle have been removed.
Reduce the rubbing of harnesses and saddles.

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