Strangles a highly contagious disease in horses

Lainie Kringen-Scholtz
Aug 12, 2026
2 hrs ago

Blister Beetles 1 horses.jpg — Horses are very susceptible to blister beetle poisoning.
Submitted photo by Troy Walz.

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There is no disease in equine medicine that is more annoying than strangles. The clinical signs vary from very mild to very severe, and it is highly contagious. Here is what you need to know.

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Lainie Kringen-Scholtz, DVM, is veterinarian and owner of True North Veterinary Health in Wentworth, S.D. Reach her at truenorthveterinaryhealth@gmail.com or PO Box 117, Wentworth, SD 57075.