What is sheath cleaning? Why do we do it?

1. One of the most important reasons for annual sheath cleaning is to inspect the penis and sheath to look for cancerous lesions. Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common equine tumour, and the penis and sheath are common areas for this type of cancer to be found.

2. Accumulation you see on the penis is smegma, not dirt. This material is continually secreted from the penis for a very specific purpose, it provides lubrication and a protective covering.

3. The “bean” is accumulated smegma in the urethral fossa around the end of the urethral process. Normally a beige colour, ranging in size from a pea to a few inches, and solid.

4. Sheath cleaning does not have to be done regularly. It is recommended 1-2 times a year for horses that form a “bean” regularly. In some cases, a horse will not develop a “bean” and may only need to be lightly cleaned in 1-2+ years. However, it is recommended to have your horse checked annually for lesions.

5. Sheath cleaning can be harmful when done incorrectly or frequently. If done using methods of scrubbing, antibacterial soap or sticking a hose up the sheath to flush, the natural protective covering and healthy bacteria population are removed. This can leave your horse exposed to micro-abrasions, sores and infection. This can be an uncomfortable and painful experience, likely leaving them feeling resistant to the routine cleaning/check.

6. When sheath cleaning, minimal or no smegma flakes are removed from the penis, but rather build up in the sheath is gently cleaned away.

7. When in doubt always have a vet or professional clean and check your horse.

8. Some horse owners may feel the need to clean their horse for appearance before a show. It is advised not to do this as smegma is part of a system to keep the penis protected. As with most things, we’re better off letting horses be horses.

9. Mares aren’t left out either. A build-up can form in between their udder and become crusty. This warrants gentle cleaning too. The most common area for build-up is between the teats.

Belisari Equine Bodywork offers sheath and teat cleaning services. Contact at 250-431-8089 call/text or belisarifarms@hotmail.com.