Infectious diseases are a constant threat to the health and welfare of horses. Foals are especially at risk, and it is important to thoroughly clean and disinfect stalls where mares foal. Disinfectants such as phenolic compounds will kill rotavirus, a pathogen that causes infectious diarrhea in young foals, as well as salmonella, R. equi, and other equine pathogens.

To clean and disinfect stalls that have nonporous surfaces, take all buckets, feed tubs, and bedding out of the stall and remove as much organic matter as possible. This includes hay, straw, shavings, feed, manure, urine, etc.

Using a hose and garden nozzle sprayer, wash all stall surfaces using a detergent or a disinfectant that also has detergent capabilities. Before working with the disinfectant, however, put on protective clothing, rubber or nitrile gloves, and eye goggles. Follow label instructions and dilute the disinfectant into an applicator (e.g., garden nozzle sprayer). Spray the disinfectant on the walls (begin at the top) and floors and allow to dry. Do not rinse. Scrub all buckets, feed tubs, and other feeding equipment with a detergent. Spray on the diluted disinfectant, allow to soak for 10 minutes, and then completely rinse with potable (drinkable) water. For stubborn stains, keep the surface wet for 10-20 minutes, then scrub by hand. Rinse by starting at the top of the stall, then work from the edges of the stall toward the drain area or exit of stall.

After cleaning and rinsing all surfaces, remove as much excess water as possible, especially from floors, using a broom or rubber squeegee. Make sure to completely rinse the disinfectant off any item from which the horse will eat or drink. Dry these containers and return them to the disinfected stall