Abdominal ultrasound is a valuable, non-invasive diagnostic tool that allows veterinarians to visualize the organs and soft tissues within a horse’s abdomen. Using high-frequency sound waves, the technique produces real-time images that can reveal both normal anatomy and subtle abnormalities....

Rectal examination remains one of the most valuable and informative diagnostic tools available to equine practitioners when evaluating gastrointestinal conditions. In cases of colic, it is often the single most informative procedure for identifying the underlying cause, determining the severity...

Joint disease and injury are common causes of lameness and poor performance in horses, particularly in athletic or young growing animals. Conditions such as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), synovitis, and traumatic fractures of joint surfaces can significantly affect a horse’s comfort,...

Neurologic disease in horses often presents a diagnostic challenge, as clinical signs can be vague or difficult to narrow down to one disease. A valuable tool available to veterinarians handling neurologic cases is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. By providing a...

Fungal diseases in horses represent a diverse group of conditions that can affect the skin, respiratory tract, eyes, and internal organs. While less common than bacterial or viral infections, fungal infections are often more insidious and challenging to diagnose. Because...

Abdominal disease is a common and sometimes life-threatening problem in horses, with colic being one of the most frequent emergencies encountered in equine practice. One valuable tool in the diagnostic process for colic cases is abdominocentesis, also known as a...

The equine heart is a remarkable organ, designed to support athletic performance, endurance, and overall health. However, like any system, it can be affected by disease or structural abnormalities that compromise its function. Detecting heart problems in horses can be...

An ophthalmic examination involves more than simply looking at the surface of the eye. A complete assessment evaluates the cornea, lens, anterior and posterior chambers, tear production, ocular pressure, and reflexes. Special diagnostic tools, such as fluorescein dye, Schirmer tear...

Hay is the cornerstone of most equine diets, providing the fiber necessary for gut motility and a healthy microbiome, along with essential nutrients to support body condition, energy levels, and overall well-being. However, when hay becomes moldy, its value as...

Viral infections are among the most common health challenges faced by horses, ranging from mild, self-limiting illnesses to severe, life-threatening diseases that spread rapidly through equine populations. Because many different viruses can affect horses, recognizing and correctly diagnosing these infections...

Electrocardiography (ECG) is one of the most important tools veterinarians use to evaluate equine heart health. While stethoscopes remain invaluable for identifying murmurs and abnormal rhythms during a physical exam, an ECG provides a more precise and objective way to...

The nervous system plays a vital role in every aspect of a horse's health and performance, from balance and coordination to sensory perception and behavior. When this system is interrupted, the signs can be subtle or dramatic, and distinguishing neurologic...

Urinalysis is a simple yet powerful diagnostic tool that can provide valuable insights into a horse’s overall health. By examining the appearance and composition of urine, veterinarians can assess kidney function, hydration status, and the presence of certain toxins. Although...

Necropsy, also known as an autopsy or post-mortem examination, is a vital diagnostic tool in equine veterinary medicine. When a horse dies unexpectedly or under unclear circumstances, performing a necropsy can provide critical insights into the cause of death. Necropsy...

Radiographs, commonly known as X-rays, are one of the most valuable diagnostic tools in equine veterinary medicine. They allow veterinarians to examine the internal structures of the horse—primarily bones and joints—without the need for surgery or invasive procedures. Whether evaluating...

Gastroscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool that allows veterinarians to directly visualize the inside of a horse's upper digestive tract. This minimally invasive procedure uses a specialized flexible camera, called a gastroscope, to identify abnormalities that cannot be detected through...