Student Case Presentation
A Sweet Solution: Use of Honey in the Management of a Preputial Abscess in a Bull
| Date/Time: |
8/27/2026 Poster 13
|
| Presenter: |
Destiny Adams |
| Veterinary School: |
OK |
Abstract:
Hired Gun, A 2-year-Old Hereford Bull presented with symmetrical, moderate swelling around the mid prepuce that extended to the end of the penis. Ultrasound showed suspected consolidating infection that extended ventrally under the penis with air reverberation (abscess). Upon palpation of the penis, there was a superficial tear noticed 3 inches from the opening that extended 1.5 cm ventrally. The preputial opening was also scoped, and fibrin and generous amounts of inflammation were noted. Given the location of the lesion and corresponding abscess these bulls tend to create adhesions that preclude them from being able to reproduce. To facilitate urination, a pessary drain was installed and changed daily. Hydrotherapy was done in the surrounding area daily. Warm water and iodine were used to flush the prepuce, and warm water was also utilized for soaking its distal end. Additionally, the bull was given Meloxicam every 48 hours for discomfort and inflammation. Medical grade honey was placed inside the prepuce around the penis at each bandage change. He was monitored for straining or trouble urinating. Hired Gun's abscess ruptured with large amounts of fetid purulent white discharge. The abscess was then flushed with water and honey was placed daily inside the abscess and around the penis at each bandage change. Fibrin and inflammation upon re-scoping were improved showing clear mucosa. Bandaging stopped and only hydrotherapy and honey were done. After three days of not getting any purulent discharge and seeing everything clear on scope, Hired Gun was sent home and rechecked 60 days after where he was able to extend the penis which had a mild stricture and no signs of adhesions and produced sperm during a BSE collection. This instance demonstrates how honey can be effective in healing and not allowing adhesions to form in cases of preputial abscesses.
