An ointment is a semi-solid topical preparation in which one or more medicinal or protective agents are dispersed within a hydrophobic base, typically composed of petrolatum, lanolin, or a blend of fats and waxes. The occlusive nature of the oily base retards water evaporation from the skin surface, maintains a moist wound environment, and enhances penetration of active ingredients into the dermis. In equine veterinary practice, ointments serve multiple roles: antimicrobial ointments containing nitrofurazone or silver sulfadiazine are applied to lacerations and burns; anti-inflammatory ointments incorporating corticosteroids treat localized dermatitis and inflammatory skin conditions; and barrier ointments protect wounds from contamination and reduce proud flesh formation. Wound management with ointment is commonly needed following hoof abscess drainage, where an ointment-soaked poultice pad is applied to draw residual infection. Proper application technique requires cleaning the affected area before applying ointment; applying ointment over contaminated tissue can seal in bacteria and delay healing. Ointments differ from creams in being anhydrous or nearly so, and from gels in having a greasier feel and lower water content. For farrier hoof care, petroleum-based hoof ointments condition the hoof wall and coronary band. See also the first 48 hours of hoof abscess management for the poultice-and-ointment protocol in practice, and laminitis risk management where barrier ointments are part of the grazing-restriction toolkit.
Further Reading
- ointment (Wikipedia)
- For topical treatment selection in common equine dermatologic conditions: diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders in horses — MSD Veterinary Manual