
E. coli is
a bacteria that naturally occurs in high numbers in all horse feces. As
part of the normal flora of horses, it does not cause problems in the
lower digestive tract. If the feces contaminates water or food, the
bacteria may produce a harmful toxin. This toxin is dangerous to horses
and humans. Cleanliness and disinfection are the best preventative
measures to take. Household bleach destroys the bacteria, and can be
used in the diluted form to clean your horse's water system. Daily
cleaning and weekly disinfection is a common routine. Humans would only
be at risk if they drank the E. coli contaminated water.