When finding a cut on your horse no matter the size, here is a general protocol to follow:

I. EVALUATE THE WOUND:

A. Where is the cut located (above or below hock or knee or over a joint)?

B. How long and wide is the cut?

C. Is the cut bleeding? How badly?

D. Are they using the limb that is injured, and if so how?

E. How old does the wound look?

If there is severe bleeding below the knee or fetlock, apply a pressure wrap with a clean leg cotton, clean towel or sheet and vetrap or ace bandage. If the wound bleeds through the first wrap apply a second wrap over the first one.

Call your veterinarian as soon as possible and be prepared to give all the information about the wound/cut to the secretary or answering service.

Why suture a cut that might heal by itself? First, it may significantly reduce the amount of scarring and proud flesh (granulation tissue). Second, healing time can be greatly reduced by as much as 6-8 weeks.

Many medications are detrimental to the fragile cells exposed in fresh wounds. While waiting for your vet to come see your horse, or when transporting him to the veterinarian, only use water soluble, non-irritating, antiseptic solutions such as Furacin, Novalsan ointment or Betadine ointment. Cuts should be flushed with clean water to remove debris and dirt, and can be dressed with furacin while awaiting veterinary attention.

Within six hours the area around the cut will begin to swell and become contaminated. The results of wound healing are directly affected by how fresh the laceration is when it is repaired. Most cuts can be sutured if they are examined within 24 hours.

After your veterinarian has attended to the wound, continued care of the cut may be necessary. Wrap changes are often necessary, as well as a return visit to your vet. Your horse may even need to be on a course of antibiotics as determined by your veterinarian.

Prevention may be your biggest ally. Maintain fences, while keeping your pastures and paddocks clean of debris. Replace old or unsafe fences with safer materials such as board or pipe.

It is also important to keep your horses current on his/her vaccines. If your horse has been cut and has not been vaccinated with tetanus within the past year, it is wise to booster him/her.

In conclusion the "wait & see" method for a cut is not recommended. Suturing a wound will reduce time of healing and scarring; decreasing the time until you can begin using and enjoying your horse again.