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. In horses, abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to investigate the causes of colic. It can help identify displaced or distended intestines, fluid accumulation, abscesses, tumors, or changes in the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, or reproductive organs. By assessing how these structures move and interact, ultrasound can also provide insight into gastrointestinal motility and blood flow.

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 of disease, and guiding immediate treatment decisions. During a rectal examination, the veterinarian systematically evaluates the accessible organs within the caudal abdomen and pelvis, including the large and small colon, cecum, and bladder. Palpation allows detection of abnormalities that may indicate specific conditions such as large colon volvulus, cecal impaction, or small intestinal obstruction. Although routine for experienced clinicians, rectal examination must be performed with care to ensure safety for both horse and examiner. Proper restraint, adequate lubrication, and the use of sedation or smooth muscle relaxants are essential to reduce straining and minimize the risk of rectal tears, a serious potential complication. Rectal findings contribute to a comprehensive assessment of gastrointestinal function when combined with other diagnostic approaches, such as abdominal auscultation, nasogastric intubation, ultrasonography, and laboratory testing. For veterinarians managing horses with colic or other digestive disturbances, mastery of this procedure and the ability to interpret subtle variations in normal anatomy are critical components of effective case management.

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, movement, and long-term soundness. Arthroscopy has become the gold standard for addressing these issues because it allows the surgeon to assess the joint directly, rather than relying solely on imaging techniques such as radiographs or ultrasound. Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopy offers many advantages. The smaller incisions reduce soft tissue trauma, postoperative pain, and infection risk, while also resulting in faster healing and minimal scarring.

Bucking is an equine behavior that can be both thrilling and frightening for riders. It can be a playful leap in the pasture or a dangerous kick under saddle. Some horses buck to release energy or excitement, while others do it because of pain, fear, or confusion. Horses are prey animals, and bucking is a natural way to protect themselves or react to discomfort. However, when this behavior becomes a habit, it can put both horse and rider at risk. Explore the main reasons horses buck and find practical tips for preventing, managing, and addressing the behavior safely. Understanding why your horse bucks is the first step toward keeping rides safe and enjoyable.

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 direct assessment of the biochemical and cytologic environment of the CNS, CSF analysis offers insight into disease processes that cannot be obtained through routine bloodwork or imaging alone.

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 clinical signs can be subtle or mimic other diseases, an accurate diagnosis requires a combination of clinical awareness and appropriate diagnostic testing. Diagnosis of fungal disease typically combines microscopic examination, culture, and molecular testing. Direct microscopic examination of affected tissues can reveal fungal elements, while fungal culture allows for species identification and antifungal susceptibility testing. Molecular techniques, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), provide rapid and sensitive confirmation, especially for organisms that are slow-growing or difficult to culture.

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 belly tap. Abdominocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure that allows collection of fluid from the abdominal cavity, known as peritoneal fluid. By analyzing this fluid, veterinarians can gain crucial insight into the health of the intestines and other abdominal organs. Changes in the color, clarity, or microscopic composition of this fluid can provide important clues about whether the gastrointestinal tract is compromised, if infection is present, or if bleeding or inflammation is occurring inside the abdomen.