Anaerobic bacteria refers to any type of bacteria that thrives and grows in areas where there is no oxygen. Anaerobic bacteria does best in moist conditions in deep tissue or organs were exposure to oxygen is very limited or non-existent. Typically anaerobic bacterial infections are characterized by foul odors, swelling, pain and inflammation as well as tissue destruction that is often permanent. Horses, like any other animal, may develop anaerobic bacterial infections due to any number of factors, but they tend to be most commonly seen in hooves, dental and tooth problems and respiratory conditions. Deep cuts and wounds are also a likely source for anaerobic bacterial infections.
Anaerobic bacteria in the hooves is considered to be the likely cause of a condition known as White Line Disease. In this instance small cracks or breaks in the hoof wall allow the bacteria into the hoof where it continues to grow and develop. This will result in a white, lumpy looking breaking or crumbling of the hoof horn that is often described as looking like spoiled cottage cheese. The wall is actually separating from the inside or laminae of the hoof which will become worse if the bacterial and fungal infections are not treated. Owners can help prevent this condition from occurring by keeping hooves trimmed, feeding a nutritionally sound and balanced diet, treating any foot injuries immediately and stabling the horses on clean, dry bedding rather than in damp, wet conditions that are ideal for the anaerobic bacteria. Treatment includes shoeing to prevent further damage to the hoof, treatment for fungal and bacterial infections and ongoing hoof management programs.
Dental problems in horses are often seen when the wolf teeth become problematic and cause pain when chewing, when sharp areas of the teeth lacerate or cut the mouth, when teeth become abnormally long or very worn down or when periodontal gum disease is present that causes tooth loss and pain in movement of the mouth. Each of these conditions is an ideal time for anaerobic bacteria to get started in the mouth. Broken teeth that allow the bacteria into the root and down into the jaw then into the blood system are particularly dangerous. Checking your horse's teeth on a regular basis and observing them eating can quickly tell you if there is any pain or discomfort in the mouth. Vets can work with you to treat periodontal disease and to correct any tooth problems as they occur.
Respiratory conditions are often found in combination with anaerobic bacterial infections. Pleuropneumonia is the general term used to describe any type of infection of the lungs or respiratory system including the pleural space. Typically the conditions that bring on the pleuropneumonia include poor health and stabling, long transportation, viral infections and even chronic over exertion can lead to a weakening of the immune system leading to respiratory infections. The anaerobic bacterial infection is usually a secondary issue that contributes to the severity of the primary condition. Approximately 40-70% of all horses that are treated for pleuropneumonia also have anaerobic bacterial infections in the respiratory system.
Treatment for pleuropneumonia and related anaerobic bacterial infections includes draining the fluid from the lungs and long term antibiotic therapy targeted to clean up the microbial infections. In extreme conditions surgery may be required to remove fibrous tissue that may be impeding the recovery process.
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