Foot abscess in foal!

cblover

cblover

Well-Known Member
Joined
1 October 2009
Messages
1,887
Visit site
Hi there,
My 11 wk old foal Teddy has developed quite acute lameness in his hind offside hoof. Got vet out today and he diagnosed an abscess somewhere near the bulb of his heal but couldn't find it to release the pressure. Bless him, he can only put his foot down by resting his toe on the ground. Vet told me to poultice it for a day or so using a dry poultice - I thought maybe a wet one would be better? I'm just wondering how other people have managed abscesses in foals and how long might I have to wait until it bursts? Vet said it could get worse before it gets better and I hate seeing him hobbling around like he is!

Vet said he could still go out in the field but of course he's not moving around much.
 
I cant see the scientific proof in poulticing at all and would love someone to give me the scientific reasoning. Always sounds like an old wives tale to me.

I would get your farrier out (and would have done before I got the vet). See what he says!
 
Do you think you may be able to get the foal to stand that foot in a warm and strong salt water foot bath? Might be good if the foal is good with it, might take a few attempts but all good practice for them...
 
Thanks for that! My barefoot trimmer lives in Inverness and I live in Cumbria. He makes a trip down every 7 weeks and was only here last week. Typical!!! I could give him a ring tomorrow and see what he makes of it! Part of my field is wet and apparently that could have a lot to do with it!....Just want to help him. He's had a shot of pain relief so hopefully he'll be a bit more comfortable.
 
Tisn't the vet you need, its your farrier.
Once the abscess is open, you can hot tub it to draw the cr*p out, but you will need to keep it clean and dry once lanced.
 
Teddy is a real sweetheart - he might stand with his foot in a bucket of salt water. Worth a try, really wish it would burst and give him some relief!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top