FORELEG SWELLING - HELP !!

[somerset-lass]

Hi, my boys offside for is swollen again this morning . its to the side of the fetlock, he's not lame or sore on it & its not that warm. any ideas what it could be ? also, any ideas of a prevention ? thanks for your help again ! a very worried mother.

 

[cptrayes]

How low? Just above and down to the fetlock? Minor strain of the branch of the suspensory ligament on that side. Needs rest or it could get much worse.

Is the vein in his leg pumping hard? Pus in the foot on that side is possible though it doesn't sound right.

Have you gone over the area with a "fine tooth comb" approach looking for mudrash?

If in doubt, you need a vet, lame or not, if only to put your mind at rest. You'd never forgive yourself if it was something that could be sorted now that gets worse later because it wasn't treated early.

 

[kirstyl]

Does he have or has he had any mudfever/little scabs? Lymphangitis can start through small infected area and create initally localised swelling which can then spread. If it is lymphangitis the vet needs to come asap to get antibiotics in to stop infection going through lymphatic system. My horse had swelling in just same place as yours, next day it had spread round his fetlock and I called vet straight away. Antibiotics and lots of exercise is the cure! Good luck