Folliculitis

[clairelouisehorses]

Hi has anyone's horse had this, just after some advice on management, my horse has been diagnosed with this. I have got malaseb to bath him in and I have washed his rugs and brushes, does anyone have any tips as what I'm doing seems to be only helping a little.

 

[alsiola]

Folliculitis is caused, the majority of the time, by normal skin bacteria, not invasion of new bacteria. The normal bacteria can become a problem when the skin is damaged, or its normal protective barrier is reduced. For example, excess moisture from rain/sweating, trauma from ill fitting tack or itching. It is important to find the root cause why the bacteria are causing a problem in the first place, not just treat the infection. Where is the folliculitis on your horse's body?

The other, much less likely possibility, is that there is actually a "not normal" bacteria present, in which case culture and sensitivity will reveal what it is, and what will treat it. This is only normally done if there is a poor response to initial treatment.

It is important to note that although treatment may be effective, damage will already have been done to the follicles and hair loss may continue in already affected areas. You are looking for a reduction in inflammation in already affected areas, and for no further areas to become affected when judging a response to treatment. Hair regrowth will take time.