FDA Issued Warning Over Contaminated Equine Wound Product
Owners and veterinarians should stop using the recalled HYCOAT solution following severe fungal infections.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Pet Health
The FDA issued warning letters to Neogen Corp. and Sciarra Aeromed Inc. after nearly 100 horses developed serious infections linked to a contaminated wound care product. At least 20 horses were euthanized due to infections stemming from the use of the topical solution.
Why it matters
The investigation revealed insanitary manufacturing conditions and identified multiple fungi in the product, highlighting significant safety risks for horses treated with the solution. Regulators took action after the manufacturer marketed the item as an animal device without reporting adverse events to the FDA.
The FDA confirmed contamination with several fungi, including Purpureocillium lilacinum and Isaria takamizusanensis, within the HYCOAT topical solution. Neogen Corp. initiated a voluntary recall of the product in late January 2026.
The players
FDA
The federal agency responsible for overseeing the safety and efficacy of animal health products and medical devices.
Neogen Corp.
A developer of animal health products that marketed the recalled wound management solution.
Sciarra Aeromed Inc.
A manufacturing entity that received a warning letter from the FDA regarding production facility conditions.
The details
Veterinarians inadvertently used this topical wound management solution as an injection, leading to severe fungal infections. FDA testing identified contamination in products manufactured under insanitary conditions at the associated facilities. The agency began its investigation after receiving multiple reports of adverse events from veterinary professionals.
Timeline
Late 2025: The FDA began receiving initial reports regarding the misuse and adverse effects of the product.
Late January 2026: Neogen Corp. initiated a voluntary recall of the HYCOAT wound care solution.
September 2026: The FDA issued formal warning letters to the product manufacturers.
The Home Front
This enforcement action aligns with the FDA's regulatory oversight under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to ensure animal medical devices meet safety standards. The recall reflects a broader trend of increased regulatory scrutiny regarding the manufacturing conditions of veterinary health products.
Horse owners should contact their veterinarian immediately to confirm if any stored HYCOAT or similar wound solutions have been discarded. Check your stable inventory for any products subject to this recall and verify they are not in use for current treatments.
The takeaway
Always verify that any veterinary products used in your stable are being applied for their intended purpose and remain within current safety guidelines. Keep a file of all medical supplies currently used by your veterinarian to ensure they are not part of ongoing safety recalls.
Further reading
For more information on ensuring your animals receive safe medical care, visit Pet Health.
