Ward Off Warts In Your Horse

Warts are epidermal growths that may be either congenital or acquired in origin. They are caused by a virus, and are most often found on the lips, abdomen, and inner ear surfaces. Warts are benign growths. They are much more common in young horses about 9 to 15 months of age.

Warts often spontaneously regress, and ore not usually removed unless they interfere with eating or secondary changes occur. If removal is desired, the veterinarian may surgically excise the warts, use caustic chemicals, apply thermal cautery, or use cryosurgery. An autogenous vaccine sometimes effective against warts can be administered. This vaccine is given in two doses at two week intervals; the warts should begin regressing within 3-5 weeks. Daily applications of an oil, such as castor oil, may help soften the warts and speed their disappearance.