Hives

Question
I have a 20 year young Appendix gelding. He is a working Show Jumper and is on a high-calorie feed twice-a-day along with alfalfa. I started to notice hives on him about 4 days ago, and now he has over 18 hives about 1/4 across on his neck and shoulder. How can I get ridd of his hives!!!

Answer
Hello Holly! Hives in horses is similar to hives in humans. Most cases are allergic in origin, and there are many different causes of the allergic reaction. Hives can be caused by reactions to drugs, especially to antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Other causes include allergies to food, reactions to topical drugs or ointments placed on the skin, and seasonal reactions to pollen and molds in the environment. Occasionally hives are secondary to digestive disturbances.

The best treatment for hives is, of course, to eliminate the source of the problem. Since that approach rarely is accomplished quickly, it often is necessary to treat the animal to relieve the signs. This is especially true if the reaction is progressing, and if further swelling is threatening to interfere with normal functions. In these acute situations, the best treatment is most likely one of the fast-acting corticosteroids, such as predisolone sodium succinate. This, and similar cortisone derivatives, are given intravenously and should only be administered under your veterinarian's direction.

Your horse might not exhibit any signs of extreme discomfort or pain from hives, but rest assured he really does not feel good, so it might not be advisable to pursue any plans to show your horse. If you intend on showing your horse in a halter class or any other kind of class that is based on general appearance, you might want to reconsider. He is not at his cosmetic best at this time. If you want to him to perform, he can probably oblige; however, if you want him to perform to his ultimate best, he probably will not be able to comply. When we ask our horses to perform, we want them at the peak of their ability, both physically and mentally. When a horse is suffering from even a mild case of hives, it remains doubtful if he feels up to giving you and his best performance.

Hope I've helped you out!
                       Heather