Contagious Equine Metritis

Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) is a venereal bacterial disease of horses. CEM is spread through natural breeding, artificial insemination, and contaminated equipment.

Mares infected with CEM may show mild or more severe degrees of uterine inflammation and vulvar discharge. Abortion and permanent fertility issues are rare. Stallions, and some mares, infected with CEM do not show symptoms, but can carry and spread the disease for years. Infected horses can be treated successfully for CEM.

CEM is not considered endemic to the United States. However, there have been two recent outbreaks involving multiple states.

Any case of CEM in horses must be reported to the Board by calling 651-201-6804.