Can Horses Get Lyme Disease? Symptoms

The morning sun glints off dew-speckled grass as your horse trots lazily across the pasture. But something feels off—their usual energy is muted, their gait slightly stiff. Could it be fatigue, or something more sinister lurking in those tall grasses? Lyme disease, often associated with dogs and humans, is a growing concern for equestrians. So, can horses get Lyme disease? Absolutely. And recognizing the symptoms early can make all the difference.

Can Horses Get Lyme Disease? The Immediate Answer

Yes, horses can contract Lyme disease, though it’s less commonly discussed than in pets or humans. Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through tick bites, Lyme disease in horses often goes undiagnosed until symptoms become severe. Unlike humans, horses don’t develop the classic "bullseye" rash, making detection trickier. Instead, watch for subtle signs like lameness that shifts between legs, stiffness, or even behavioral changes like irritability or lethargy. Some horses may develop fever, weight loss, or sensitivity to touch.

Yet Lyme disease is a master of disguise. Symptoms can mimic arthritis, muscle soreness, or even neurological conditions. A horse might seem "off" for months before a vet connects the dots. Blood tests can confirm exposure, but false negatives happen. If you live in a tick-heavy area—think wooded pastures or tall grasses—stay vigilant. Early treatment with antibiotics like doxycycline can turn things around, but prevention (think tick control and regular checks) is far better than a cure.

And let’s be honest: ticks are sneaky. One bite from an infected black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) is all it takes. If your horse roams in Lyme-endemic regions—the Northeast U.S., parts of Europe—this isn’t just a hypothetical risk. It’s a real threat hiding in the brush.

How Lyme Disease Affects Horses: A Closer Look

Lyme disease doesn’t play fair with horses. The bacteria invade joints, nerves, and even organs, leading to a cascade of issues. Some horses fight it off with minimal symptoms, while others face chronic struggles. Here’s how it unfolds:

The Silent Onset: Early-Stage Symptoms

In the early weeks, signs are subtle. Your horse might seem slightly "off"—maybe a reluctance to move freely or a dip in performance. They could nap more than usual or pick at their feed. These hints are easy to dismiss as aging or mild discomfort, but paired with tick exposure, they’re red flags.

When It Gets Serious: Chronic Lyme Disease

Left untreated, Lyme can wreak havoc. Chronic cases may show swollen joints, muscle wasting, or even neurological symptoms like head tilting or difficulty swallowing. In rare cases, it triggers uveitis (eye inflammation) or laminitis. The key? Catching it before it escalates.

Diagnosing Lyme Disease in Horses

No single test is perfect. Vets often use a combination of:

• Blood tests (SNAP or Western blot): Detects antibodies, but doesn’t confirm active infection.
• Clinical signs: Your observations matter. Track behavioral changes and lameness patterns.
• Response to treatment: If symptoms improve with antibiotics, Lyme is likely the culprit.

Prevention: Your Best Defense Against Ticks

Stop ticks before they latch on:

• Pasture management: Mow tall grass and clear brush where ticks thrive.
• Tick repellents: Sprays or permethrin-based products (approved for equine use).
• Daily checks: Run your hands over your horse’s coat, especially under the mane and tail.

Treatment Options for Infected Horses

If Lyme is confirmed, antibiotics (like doxycycline) are the go-to. Treatment lasts weeks, sometimes months. Supportive care—joint supplements, anti-inflammatories, and rest—helps manage symptoms. But patience is key: recovery can be slow.

Living with a Lyme-Positive Horse

A diagnosis isn’t a death sentence. Many horses regain full health with prompt care. Adjust workloads, monitor for flare-ups, and keep tick prevention rigorous. Your bond with your horse—built on trust and attentiveness—is your greatest tool.

As the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden light over your horse’s pasture, remember: knowledge is power. Lyme disease is stealthy, but with vigilance, you can outsmart it. Stay curious, stay observant, and keep those tick checks thorough. Your horse’s vibrant spirit—and sound body—are worth every effort.