Symptoms

Headshaking in horses describes repeated, uncontrollable, usually vertical movements of the head and neck. This behavior can be concerning for owners and caretakers, as some forms are a source of significant distress for horses. Headshaking may appear gradually or suddenly,...

Lactation is a vital process for broodmares, ensuring the survival and growth of foals by providing essential nutrients and immune protection. However, some mares experience abnormal or inappropriate lactation, producing milk outside the expected timeline—either too early, too late, or...

Colic in horses is one of the most common and serious health conditions affecting equines, and it can strike suddenly, regardless of age, breed, or discipline. Colic refers to abdominal pain, which can arise from a variety of causes, ranging...

Riders and trainers often encounter challenges that affect the performance and well being of their equine partners. Among these are exercise intolerance and poor performance, sometimes referred to as "ring sour." While ring sour can be frustrating for owners and...

Lethargy in horses is a significant concern for equine owners and veterinarians alike, as it can often indicate a severe underlying health issue requiring medical attention. Lethargy is characterized as a decrease in typical energy levels, activity, and enthusiasm. It...

Swollen jaws are a common concern in equine medicine; they can be a symptom of several underlying health issues and conditions that range from mild to potentially life-threatening. Jaw swelling in horses can be caused by a number of underlying...

Itching, or pruritus, is a common issue that affects all horses, with various potential causes ranging from insect bites and parasite infestations to bacterial and fungal infections, as well as allergic reactions. Horses typically exhibit signs of itchiness by biting,...

Quidding is a term used to describe a horse dropping food from its mouth while eating. This can be a sign of dental problems as well as a number of other conditions. Regular dental care is of utmost importance to...

Horses, as prey animals with considerable size and weight, have evolved to minimize the need for lying down, a position that increases their vulnerability to predators and hinders quick escapes. Despite these adaptations, horses do spend a portion of the...

Defecation is crucial for maintaining a horse's digestive health and overall well-being. Regular bowel movements help to ensure that the digestive system is functioning properly, allowing waste to be efficiently expelled from the body. This is vital for preventing issues...

Horses produce 1 to 2.5 gallons of sweat per hour, amounting to up to 60 gallons daily. Sweat, produced by over 800 sweat glands per cm² of skin, contains water, electrolytes (sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, magnesium), and proteins like latherin,...

Horses produce between five and ten gallons (20 to 40 litres) of saliva each day. Unlike many other animals, horses only produce saliva during mastication (chewing). Saliva is vital for moistening and lubricating food, facilitating easier swallowing, and neutralizing stomach...

Seizures, while relatively rare in horses compared to dogs and humans, pose significant challenges for both horse owners and veterinarians. These neurological episodes, characterized by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, can manifest in various forms. During a seizure, a...

Epistaxis is a common condition in horses that refers to bleeding from the nostrils. Nosebleeds can range in severity and may result from trauma, underlying health conditions or exercise. The majority of nosebleeds in horses are caused by minor trauma...

Alopecia or hair loss in horses can occur for several different reasons and may be temporary or permanent. Alopecia refers to the partial or complete absence of hair that occurs in any area of the body where hair is normally...

Have you noticed changes in your horse's appetite and eating behavior? Perhaps your horse has gone off their feed or is no longer interested in eating as much forage as usual. Or maybe your horse's appetite has increased, and they...

Unexplained weight loss in your horse is a cause for concern for any horse owner but is often straightforward to diagnose and address. If your horse is losing body condition, it could indicate an undiagnosed health problem or it may...