Warts

Equine warts are small, gray to pink cauliflower-like growths that are usually found of the muzzle, around the lips, nostrils, and eyes and occasionally on the lower legs. Warts can also involve the penis and vulva. Lesions commonly develop on young horses, 6 months to 3 years of age. The lesions range in size from 5mm to 20mm and are generally multiple in numbers. Ten to more than 100 warts are common. The incubation period is about 60 days. The warts reach maturity in 4 to 8 weeks. Then usually spontaneously regress within 4 months. Some cases may last more than a year.

Warts are contagious. Transmission occurs by direct contact (nose to nose) and indirectly via thins like fence posts and feed buckets. Affected individuals should be kept away from the other horses. Disinfection of thestables and yard helps decrease spread of the virus.

Diagnosis is usually based on the history and appearance. A large wart on the lower leg might be confused with a sarcoid and a vet should be asked for advice. Usually treatment is unnecessary. The warts are harmless and almost always clear up spontaneously.