Introduction

If you’re a horse owner, you’ve probably noticed something peculiar in the spring or autumn: soft swellings under your horse’s jawline that seem to come out of nowhere. These mysterious lumps, affectionately nicknamed “grass glands,” have puzzled equestrians for years. Are they dangerous? Should you call the vet? Or are they just another quirk of equine life?

In this blog post, we’re diving deep into the world of grass glands. We’ll explore what they are, why they appear, and most importantly, how to manage them effectively to keep your horse thriving.

What Exactly Are Grass Glands?

Let’s start with the basics. Grass glands refer to the soft, puffy swellings that develop under a horse’s jaw, typically in the parotid or submandibular regions. These areas are part of the lymphatic system — the body’s waste management network. Think of the lymphatic system as a hardworking team of janitors, cleaning up toxins, allergens, and waste products.

But here’s the kicker: grass glands aren’t a disease or infection. They’re a response. Lymph nodes may become swollen as part of the body's natural response to allergens. When a horse encounters an allergen — such as certain grasses — the immune system recognises it as a foreign substance and initiates a defensive reaction.

This immune response can stimulate the lymphatic system, resulting in enlarged lymph nodes, particularly under the jaw. In many cases, this swelling is believed to be linked to pasture-related allergies, as it often subsides once the horse is removed from grazing.

Why Do Grass Glands Appear in Spring and Autumn?

In the UK, our temperate climate creates the perfect conditions for grass glands to pop up, especially during spring flushes and autumn regrowth. But why these seasons in particular?

1. Sugar and Fructan Levels: During these times, grass becomes richer in natural sugars and fructans, which can irritate the lymphatic system.
2. Environmental Changes: Sudden shifts in weather or grazing conditions can stress your horse’s immune and detox systems.
3. Fungal Exposure: Damp soil and hay can introduce moulds and mycotoxins, further taxing your horse’s body.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While most cases of grass glands are benign, it’s crucial to monitor your horse closely. Ask yourself:

• Is the swelling warm or painful to the touch?
• Does your horse have a fever or nasal discharge?
• Are they off their feed or acting lethargic?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, it’s time to call the vet. Conditions like Strangles, salivary gland infections, or tooth root abscesses can mimic grass glands, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

The Immunity Connection

Here’s the thing: grass glands aren’t just about grass. They’re a reflection of your horse’s immune health. When the lymphatic system struggles to keep up, it’s often a sign that your horse’s immune system is working overtime.

Horses with compromised immunity or poor detox pathways are more susceptible to grass glands. This is particularly true for horses that:

• Have recently been stabled for long periods.
• Are recovering from stress, antibiotics, or vaccines.
• Show signs of systemic inflammation, like dull coats or poor topline condition.

Supporting Your Horse’s Lymphatic Health

So, how can you help your horse manage grass glands naturally? Start by supporting their lymphatic system. This is where our 100% Immunity Body Tonic comes in — a game-changer for equine health.

What It Does:

• Supports lymphatic drainage.
• Support immune responses to prevent overreaction.
• Encourages detox pathways with liver-friendly ingredients.

Proactive Pasture Management

Prevention is always better than cure. To reduce the likelihood of grass glands, consider these pasture management tips:

• Rotate Grazing: Allow fields to rest and recover, reducing sugar content in the grass.
• Avoid Peak Sugar Levels: Keep turnout to early mornings or evenings when grass sugars are lower.
• Slowly introduce extra grazing

Conclusion

Grass glands might seem like a small issue, but they’re part of a bigger picture. By supporting your horse’s immune and lymphatic systems, adjusting their diet, and managing their grazing environment, you can turn a seasonal hiccup into a pathway to better health.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is designed to be informational. We do not intend to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.