Routine grooming of horses often focuses on the coat and hooves, but two areas frequently overlooked are the sheath of geldings and stallions and the udder area of mares. Research from equine veterinarians and Extension resources indicates that periodic cleaning of these areas can help prevent irritation, infection, and discomfort while allowing owners to monitor their horses for potential health issues. While these areas do not require frequent cleaning, regular inspection and occasional maintenance are important parts of overall horse care.
Understanding the Mechanics
In male horses, the penis is housed within a protective fold of skin called the sheath (or prepuce) when it is not extended. The sheath protects the penis from dirt and injury but also creates folds where natural secretions, shed skin cells, and debris can accumulate. These secretions form a substance known as smegma, which is normal but can build up over time in some horses. Some geldings produce more than others. Near the tip of the penis is a small pocket called the urethral fossa, where smegma may form a firm accumulation known as a “bean.”
Mares do not have a sheath, but they do have an udder located between the hind legs. Even in non-lactating mares, the udder contains two mammary glands and folds of skin where sweat, dirt, and skin oils can collect. Because this area is protected and warm, debris can accumulate between the folds and cause irritation if not occasionally cleaned. I know my mare loves to have her udder scratched and cleaned.
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
1. Prevents Irritation and Skin Inflammation
The sheath of geldings can accumulate smegma. Over time this buildup can irritate sensitive tissues and lead to swelling or inflammation. Geldings also may show signs of straining to urinate. Similarly, mares can accumulate dirt, sweat, and skin oils between the udder folds, which may cause skin irritation or bacterial growth.
2. Helps Detect Health Problems Early
Cleaning these areas gives horse owners an opportunity to notice abnormalities such as:
- unusual swelling
- dermatitis
- fungal or bacterial infections
- painful swelling
- behavioral discomfort when riding
- discharge
- wounds
- masses or tumors
- parasites or ticks
Veterinarians often recommend routine sheath and udder examinations because early detection of tumors, including squamous cell carcinoma, can improve treatment outcomes.
3. Prevents “Bean” Formation in Geldings
Geldings may develop a firm accumulation of smegma inside the urethral fossa called a “bean.” Removing this buildup during sheath cleaning helps prevent urinary problems.
A large bean can press against the urethra and cause discomfort by interfering with urination.
Getting to the Down and Dirty
Veterinary and Extension recommendations for cleaning geldings’ sheaths and mares’ udders vary depending on the individual horse. In general, geldings should have their sheath inspected at least once a year and cleaned every six to twelve months if significant buildup is present. Mares should have the udder area checked periodically during routine grooming and cleaned when visible dirt, sweat, or debris accumulates between the folds. It is important to note that some horses naturally produce very little buildup and may require minimal intervention, making regular inspection more important than frequent cleaning.
Supplies:
- warm water
- disposable gloves
- soft sponge or cloth
- mild sheath cleaner (optional)
- Avoid harsh soaps or detergents that can irritate delicate tissues.
- bucket
How to Clean a Gelding’s Sheath
- Choose a Safe Location
- Work in a quiet area where the horse is calm. Some horses may require mild sedation from a veterinarian if they are uncomfortable with sheath handling.
- Wear Gloves
- Smegma can carry bacteria, so gloves protect both the handler and the horse.
- Rinse with Warm Water
- Use a sponge or cloth to gently wet the sheath opening.
- Gently Remove Buildup
- Carefully remove smegma from the folds of skin using your fingers or a soft cloth.
- If the horse drops the penis naturally during cleaning, you may gently clean the shaft.
- Check for a Bean
- Locate the urethral fossa, a small pocket at the tip of the penis. Carefully feel for a firm lump of smegma and gently remove it if present.
- Rinse Thoroughly
- Rinse away debris and any cleaning product to prevent irritation.
How to Clean a Mare’s Udder
- Ensure the Horse is Relaxed
- Stand close to the horse and work calmly to avoid startling her.
- Inspect the Udder
- Look for dirt buildup between the folds as well as irritation or ticks.
- Use Warm Water and a Cloth
- Gently wipe the area to remove debris and secretions.
- Separate the Folds Carefully
- Clean between the udder halves where dirt and sweat can collect.
- Only use a mild soap if necessary
- Rinse and Dry
- Ensure all residue is removed to prevent irritation.
Safety Considerations
Cleaning these areas requires caution. Some veterinarians can show you haw to properly clean sheaths and also provide you with a sedative to administer for your geldings. If the horse does not cooperate, consult a veterinarian for assistance.
Horse owners should:
- remain close to the horse’s body
- avoid standing directly behind the horse
- move slowly and calmly
- stop if the horse becomes uncomfortable
When to Call a Veterinarian
Contact a veterinarian if you observe:
- strong foul odor
- swelling
- bleeding
- unusual discharge
- difficulty urinating
- masses or lesions
- severe pain during cleaning
These signs may indicate infection or more serious conditions requiring medical treatment.
Routine health monitoring is a key part of horse management. Along with regular grooming, hoof care, dental exams, and vaccinations, periodic sheath and udder inspection can contribute to overall equine health and comfort. By incorporating these practices into normal horse care routines, owners can help ensure their horses remain comfortable, healthy, and ready to perform.