We also use Nolvason as recommended by our vet. Iodine can be very dangerous if you accidentally spill it and it gets in the mouth or eyes. We also dip the hooves in it.
Veterinary Corner 9/99: Caring for the Umbilicus
by Frosty Franklin, DVM
Edgecliff Equine Hospital
S. 1322 Park Road, Spokane, WA 99212 * 509/924-6069
The umbilicus (belly button) of the foal requires special care. This structure is susceptible to infection, herniation, and other conditions. Many of these conditions can be prevented or treated.
The umbilical stump is exposed to the environment, and can easily become infected. The infection can spread through the blood vessels to the liver, and even into the general circulation, causing fever, illness or death. Prevention involves keeping the foal in as clean an environment as possible, and bedding the foal on straw, not shavings, for the first week of life. In addition, the umbilicus should be dipped twice daily in a 0.5% chlorhexadine (brand names are Nolvasan or Virosan - your veterinarian can obtain this solution for you) solution. Do not use iodine solutions of any kind. Tincture of iodine is damaging to tissues, and can even increase the incidence of infection. Betadine is not a strong enough antiseptic for this area.