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Tetanus
Tetanus is a serious disease caused by a bacterial toxin that affects the nervous system of animals. It particularly affects horses, which are highly sensitive to this toxin, but also sheep and goats. This disease causes generalized muscle...
What is it?
Tetanus is a serious disease caused by a bacterial toxin that affects the nervous system of animals. It particularly affects horses, which are highly sensitive to this toxin, but also sheep and goats. This disease causes generalized muscle stiffness and can be life-threatening for the animal.
Tetanus is caused by a toxin produced by a bacterium naturally present in soil and manure. This bacterium usually enters the body through a deep or contaminated wound, where it multiplies in the absence of oxygen and releases its toxin.
Deep and contaminated wounds, particularly those caused by nails or metal objects, greatly increase the risk. Procedures such as castration, disbudding, or tail docking performed under poor hygienic conditions also promote infection, as do umbilical cord injuries in young animals.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Signs include generalized muscle stiffness, difficulty walking, a rigid stance with the tail raised and ears erect. Jaw spasms preventing the animal from eating are often observed, along with heightened sensitivity to noise and light, and convulsions in advanced cases.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Transmission
The disease is not contagious from one animal to another. It occurs when bacterial spores present in the environment contaminate a wound, particularly during deep injuries, castrations, difficult births, or improperly performed care on damaged tissue.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
Tetanus is an absolute veterinary emergency requiring rapid professional intervention. If you observe signs of muscle stiffness or difficulty moving in your animal, contact a veterinarian immediately. Only a veterinarian can assess the situation and provide appropriate care.
Prevention
Regular vaccination remains the most effective prevention method, especially for horses. It is important to quickly disinfect any wound and ensure hygiene during procedures such as castration, disbudding, or newborn care. Veterinary follow-up is recommended to establish an appropriate vaccination schedule.
References
OMS — Organisation mondiale de la santé
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 08 August 2026
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