Pigeon Fever Reported in Missouri Horses

Pigeon fever, a disease not related to pigeons and most often occurring in hot and dry regions of the country, has been reported in central Missouri this autumn, according to a public service announcement made on Facebook from the University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center.

The infection is caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is not listed as a reportable disease and has not been associated with restrictions on travel or activities involving horses. Pigeon fever is highly contagious, though, with transmission possible through infected exudate. The disease can also be spread by insects, feed or water troughs, tack, and grooming tools.

The disease usually causes large abscessed areas in the muscles of a horse’s chest, leading to a puffy, pigeon-breasted appearance, hence the common name. In early disease stages, fever, lethargy, and weight loss may be noticed weeks or months before the large, deep abscesses form. Severe cases may result in ulcerative lymphangitis affecting the limbs or deeper internal abscessation.