Brittle Tail Syndrome 

First described in 2004 the syndrome affected stabled thoroughbred racehorses. Initially sporadic loss of tail hair was reported. Later the condition spread and about 30% of all stabled horses were affected.

Typically there is a change in the structure of the tail hairs which become weak and brittle. As a result the hairs break off short and the horses develop stumpy tails. Hairs on the surface of the tail were worst affected.
The mane, hooves and coat of the horses were not affected.

Scientific tests on the tail hairs revealed a wide spectrum of different bacteria, fungi and yeast. To date no specific organism has been consistently identified. However scientists believe the most likely cause of the problem is a (as yet unidentified) fungus.

Because Manetame has anti bacterial and anti fungal properties it is the shampoo of choice to alleviate the symptoms of Brittle Tail syndrome and has been widely used for this purpose.

Currently there is no known cure and scientific investigations are continuing in an effort to isolate the causative organism.

Here is a strategy to ensure Manetame is most effective when using on horses suffering from Brittle Tail syndrome: 

1. Brush the tail before applying. Apply Manetame liberally at the base of the tail, working the lather out to the entire length of hair.  If you are shampooing the whole animal thoroughly wet it all over. If you are only shampooing the tail make sure the area is thoroughly wet.  
2. The wetter the tail the easier it is to use Manetame.  
3. To lather up always add more water before you add Manetame.
4. Apply Manetame solution with a sponge and massage until a rich lather appears. Let lather remain on hair for several minutes. 
5. Rub Manetame lather (using the sponge) all over the affected area do not forget under the tail. This is an area from which bacteria and fungus spread. 
6. It is important to allow Manetame time for it to work as this allows the active ingredients to be properly absorbed and reach adequate levels throughout the tail. As a general rule, 5-10 minutes is required.
7. Rinse thoroughly and repeat steps 1-6.