Sunburn or Photosensitivity in Horses

the pasture or other areas with direct light its best to limit these outings to times of the day when the sun isnt as strong 2Photosensitization caused by plants There are a number of plants that can cause photosensitivity in horses. St. Johns Wort affects horses and cattle with this condition. Other plants like buckwheat and ground elder also known as snowint hem ountain can have this effect. One species alsike clover can cause photosensitivity as well as liver failure gastric problems and neurological disorders. This is called secondary photosensitization and byproducts from chlorophyll in some green plants are the reason that exposure may cause liver problems.
Topical treatments and medications Some grooming sprays or fly sprays may exacerbate a sunburn. Photosensitivity may also be caused by some medications so owners should consult their equine veterinarians about safe choices for horses in direct sunlight.
Diagnosing Sunburn in Horses
If your horse experiences a normal sunburn that is not linked to photosensitization your veterinarian can diagnose the condition during a standard physical exam. However the signs of photosensitization are similar to those of standard sunburns and a veterinarian should be consulted to determine the underlying cause of your horses symptoms. Photosensitization may indicate the presence of liver diseases that require further diagnosis. Your equine veterinarian may perform liver biopsies and an evaluation of the liver enzymes along with screening your horses blood feces and urine.
Treatment
When it comes to sunburn treatment options are somewhat limited but typically involve management of symptoms until your horse comfortably recovers. If sunburn affects the back riders should avoid riding until the burn heals to avoid putting a saddle on top of a painful burn. Any areas of your horses skin that become cracked or scabbed should be removed safely to prevent infection. Equine owners can apply topical antibiotic creams like Flamazine to soothe uncomfortable areas on their horses before treating minor wounds.
If your horse is experiencing photosensitization it should be stabled during the day and only allowed out at night until severe symptoms have resolved. Because this condition can cause skin tissue to die off your veterinarian may recommend corticosteroid injections along with preventing flies from affecting your horse.
Prognosis for Horses With Sunburn
In most cases of sunburn your horse can recover without much intervention. Limiting its exposure to the sun is key as an already burned horse can experience more severe burns if allowed in direct sunlight before healing completely. The