Learning the ropes Cleaning a reluctant horse
Q I’ve just taken a gelding on loan and I think that his sheath needs cleaning, but I’ve never done it before. How do I do it properly?
Alice Newman, Portsmouth
Liz says: I would recommend starting by periodically putting on a nitrile glove and feeling inside the sheath for signs of clumps of smegma. Gently remove these with warm water or human water-based hypoallergenic lubricant. It’s easier to do this when the horse has his penis down, whether he’s relaxed or has been sedated, as when his penis is fully retracted you will have to put your arm up to your elbow!
If the horse is compliant, apply warm water or lube to soften the flakes and then gently remove them. It’s imperative not to rip the flakes off dry because you will remove a thin layer from the skin which will contribute to skin damage and this, in turn, can lead to tumour formation.
Removing a bean
Beans, also known as urethral stones, build up in the cavity near the urethra. They can be fiddly to remove and it can be done wrong, so I wouldn’t advise that any owner attempts to do this without training. Despite their name, urethral stones aren’t down the urethra — the pink tube at the tip of the penis — which some owners don’t realise and attempt to clean.
If there is a bean in the cavity, you should be able to feel it when palpating the glans penis, as it will feel like a hard stone. It’s important that beans are removed as they can cause discomfort, but done incorrectly you can cause infection. As it can be painful, you are also at risk of being kicked if you aren’t careful. The best course of action, therefore, is to call out a qualified hygienist or vet to do a full clean.
Q My gelding is very reluctant to let me touch his sheath. I’ve been trying for a while, but he just seems to get cross. How can I give him a clean?
Sarah Jones, Cambridgeshire
Liz says: This is a normal reaction, as is a swishing tail or leg lift. Horses are programmed to protect this area of their anatomy. It can take a little while to settle the horse, but it’s important to weigh up whether he’s confused, in pain, or frightened of what you’re trying to do.
It’s important to listen to your horse. They are big animals and you don’t want to get hurt. You shouldn’t do anything unless the horse is compliant. They are usually after they have been desensitised. Therefore, he should be happy for you to touch him all over his body, including his belly, before you try to touch his sheath. If he isn’t, it is best to contact your vet and have him sedated initially for safety.