EQUINEKING: SADDLE SORES

Saddle sores are caused by friction between the horse and the saddle or harness.
In some cases friction as the result of faulty conformation of the horse.
If the wither is too low, for instance, the saddle may sit too far forward.
If they are too high,the withers may be compressed by the saddle.
An narrow chest can make it difficult to cinch the saddle tightly.
A thin horse has poor padding between itself and the saddle,making it a likely candidate for sores

Signs

Sores affecting only the skin are characterized by inflammation;
Redness;
The presence of bumps,
Cysts, or blisters;
and finally skin tissue death
The necrosed tissue commonly called “Sitfast”
Inflammation of the hair follicles;
The follicles may become filled with pus.
Affected areas show hair loss and are swollen, warm, and painful.
The pus dries and forms crusts.
Severe damage to the skin and deeper tissues results in skin death
If the sores are not treated (and the cause corrected), deep abscesses, scarring, and localized loss of feeling may occur.

Treatment

If hematomas present surgery is required to correct the conditions
An ice pack should be applied for 10-15 minutes to any swelling that develops under the skin after a ride
Do not massage or rub the area with liniments as this can worsen the blood and fluid leakage under the skin
Antibiotics may be given to control further infections
During the early or acute stages, astringent packs are often prescribed.
Absolute rest of the affected parts is necessary.
Wounds and inflammation of the skin of the saddle and harness regions are treated as any other skin wounds

References

Horses veterinary Encyclopedia by Cheryl Rogers and G. Jeanne Wilcox

EQUINEKING