“Fat Leg” Disease
If your horse suddenly develops a hot, swollen leg and seems uncomfortable or lame, it may be dealing with cellulitis – A painful bacterial infection. This condition often appears without warning and usually affects one leg, most commonly a hind limb.
Early signs include significant swelling, heat, pain and sometimes fever. Cellulitis can progress rapidly and lead to complications like chronic swelling, abscesses or laminitis.
We treat cellulitis aggressively to prevent long-term issues. Treatment typically includes antibiotics, anti-inflammatories for pain and swelling, and supportive therapies like cold hosing.
In more severe cases, we may recommend additional diagnostics or follow-up care to ensure full recovery.
If you notice sudden leg swelling in your horse, don’t wait, early intervention is key to a smooth recovery!
