Jaundice in horses is a yellow discoloration of the eyes, gums, or skin that develops when bilirubin builds up in the body. Bilirubin is a pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells, and it is typically processed by the liver and excreted in bile. Some horses develop mild increases in bilirubin after periods of reduced feed intake, even when liver function is normal. However, jaundice can also signal more serious conditions affecting the liver, red blood cells, or the normal flow of bile. Because the underlying causes vary widely, jaundice should never be ignored. Veterinary assessment is needed to determine why bilirubin is accumulating and whether the horse requires treatment, supportive care, or further diagnostic testing. Keep reading to learn what causes jaundice in horses, which symptoms may occur alongside it, how veterinarians diagnose and treat the underlying condition, and what steps to take if your horse develops signs of jaundice.

A swollen umbilicus in a foal is a common abnormality that may involve the external navel, deeper umbilical structures within the abdomen, or both. While some cases are relatively minor, others can indicate infection, persistent fetal structures, an umbilical hernia, or another condition requiring prompt veterinary evaluation. Because several umbilical disorders can produce similar outward signs, the cause of swelling is not always clear from appearance alone. Some problems remain localized, while others can progress internally or contribute to more widespread illness before obvious signs develop. Understanding how the umbilical structures normally close after birth, what can cause swelling, and which symptoms warrant concern can help owners recognize when a young foal needs attention. Keep reading to learn how a swollen umbilicus in foals is diagnosed, treated, managed, and monitored to reduce the risk of complications.

A hot hoof in horses is a common symptom that owners may find during routine grooming, hoof cleaning, or after exercise. While warmth can be a normal response to increased blood flow, work, or hot weather, it can also be an early sign of injury, infection, or inflammation within the foot. Because many conditions can cause a hoof to feel hot, temperature alone cannot determine the underlying problem. Hoof heat should be evaluated alongside other signs, such as lameness, pain, swelling, reluctance to bear weight, or a stronger-than-normal digital pulse. Comparing all four feet can also help owners recognize whether the warmth is temporary, localized, or potentially abnormal. A hot hoof may affect one foot or multiple feet, depending on the cause, and the severity of the heat does not always reflect the seriousness of the problem. Read on to learn what causes hoof temperature to increase, when hoof heat may require veterinary attention, how the underlying cause is diagnosed and treated, and what steps can help support healthy hooves.

The equine stress response is a normal part of how horses recognize and react to challenges in their environment. Sudden noises, travel, social changes, unfamiliar surroundings, physical demands, pain, illness, and changes in routine can all activate biological systems that help the horse stay alert and respond appropriately. In the short term, stress is an important survival mechanism that can support awareness, movement, and adaptation. However, prolonged or repeated stress may affect behavior, digestion, immune function, performance, and overall well being, especially when horses do not have enough time or support to recover.