Tetanus is caused by bacteria that live in soil and manure, lying in wait to infect wounds, surgical sites and umbilical stumps in horses and livestock. So, it’s important to clean wounds well and monitor healing — but small wounds can easily go unnoticed.
Signs of tetanus include muscle spasms that may progress to a classic sawhorse stance. Affected animals can have trouble breathing and swallowing and are sensitive to sound and touch. Prolonged intensive treatment may save some, but about half don’t survive.
Fortunately, tetanus is easily preventable with vaccination. Horses should get an annual tetanus vaccination, while cattle and small ruminants are protected by the CD&T vaccine. If your animal gets hurt or has surgery, ask your veterinarian if a tetanus booster is recommended.