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Rabies in horses: 21 cases (1970-1990)
S L Green1, L L Smith, W Vernau
1Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|April 15, 1992
Summary
Rabies in horses is confirmed by brain tissue testing. Clinical signs include hindquarter weakness and fever, with a short survival time of about 4.5 days despite supportive care.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Rabies is a fatal viral disease affecting the central nervous system of mammals.
- Equine rabies cases present diagnostic challenges due to varied clinical signs and potential for vaccination failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and outcomes of rabies in horses.
- To identify key clinical signs and diagnostic markers for equine rabies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 21 horses diagnosed with rabies via fluorescent antibody testing of brain tissue.
- Analysis of clinical signs, vaccination history, diagnostic test results (CSF analysis), and necropsy findings.
Main Results:
- All 21 horses tested positive for rabies antigen in brain tissue.
- Common clinical signs included ataxia, paresis, recumbency, hyperesthesia, and fever.
- Mean survival time was 4.47 days; supportive treatment did not improve survival.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed abnormalities in 5 of 6 horses, primarily elevated cell counts.
- Necropsy findings included brain edema, meningeal congestion, and focal hemorrhages in 24% of cases.
Conclusions:
- Rabies diagnosis in horses relies on definitive antigen detection in brain tissue.
- Clinical signs are variable but often involve neurological deficits and rapid deterioration.
- Early diagnosis and supportive care do not alter the typically fatal outcome of rabies in horses.