Salmonella or salmonellosis is a gastrointestinal disease caused by the Salmonella spp bacteria. The disease can also be called Salmonella enteritis or enterocolitis.

Incubation: The incubation period is the time from exposure to the virus to when a horse shows clinical signs of infection. The incubation period for salmonella in horses ranges from one to five days.

Transmission: Transmission occurs through ingesting contaminated food and water or by coming into contact with contaminated fomites (objects) and people. Horses may be asymptomatic carriers that shed the organism. Salmonella can survive in the environment for years in a wide range of temperatures. Particularly difficult to clean areas will allow the bacterium to persist and remain a constant source of infection.

Shedding Period: Shedding can occur for as long as 30 days or even longer in some cases. Illness, stress, and other gastrointestinal issues can all affect the shedding period.

Clinical Signs: Signs include diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and colic. Infection, sepsis, laminitis, and abortion may also be seen in more severe cases.

Diagnostic Testing: The gold standard for diagnosis is fecal cultures to determine susceptibility to antibiotics. However, PCR testing rapidly detects the bacteria and is typically used in conjunction with bacterial culture.

Treatment: The treatment depends on the severity of the case. Most horses will be dehydrated and will need IV fluids. More severe cases may require additional care and monitoring.

Prevention: There are no vaccines available. Frequently cleaning and disinfecting, along with keeping infected horses separate from the general population are effective in preventing salmonella.