Wound types
For your vet to give the best advice on the treatment of a wound, it is important to be able to describe the wound accurately: its nature, extent and location can make a difference to the treatment procedure.
| Wound type | Possible cause | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Incisions and lacerations | Barbed wire, glass | These can bleed heavily and may involve deeper structures. |
| Abrasions | Friction across a hard surface | Wounds will likely contain debris such as grit, sand or dirt. Thorough surface cleansing is essential to remove foreign body material. |
| Penetrating or puncture wounds | Penetration from a nail or thorn | May be a very small wound – but they should never be underestimated. These wounds can involve underlying structures and are also liable to support tetanus and other bacteria. Particularly serious when close to a joint or tendon. |
| Contusions | Bruising from kicks from other horses | There is more damage within and below the skin, and the surface may not be broken. |
