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Topic:Equine Health
Equine health encompasses the study and management of diseases, disorders, and overall well-being of horses. It involves understanding various physiological systems, preventive care, and treatment strategies to maintain optimal health in equine populations. Common areas of focus include nutrition, infectious diseases, orthopedic conditions, and reproductive health. Research in equine health aims to advance knowledge on diagnostic methods, therapeutic interventions, and management practices that improve horse welfare and performance. This page collects peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the diverse aspects of equine health, offering insights into current findings and advancements in the field.
Depth and distribution of colonic sand accumulation in a desert population of horses and its association with diagnosis of sand colic. To describe patient and management characteristics associated with radiographic sand accumulation in a desert population of horses, as well as identify factors independently associated with a diagnosis of sand colic and need for surgical intervention. Unassigned: Horses were prospectively allocated into 3 groups: control horses, horses with sand colic, and horses with non-sand-associated colic. Signalment, radiographs, and management outcomes were compared between groups. Unassigned: Median depth of sand was significantly greater in horses diagnosed with sand colic compared to other groups (11...
Multi-Detector Helical Computer Tomography, Transrectal Ultrasonography and Histology of the Lumbosacral Area: A Comparative Study in Warmblood Horse Cadavers. Pain arising from the lumbosacral region is a recognized cause of poor performance and impaired welfare in horses. However, structural changes in the intertransverse joints (ITJs), lumbar articular process joints (APJs), and lumbosacral intervertebral discs (LSDs) may also occur in asymptomatic horses, complicating interpretation of imaging findings.This study evaluated these structures in 14 middle-aged Warmblood cadavers that were not lame according to the owners prior the onset of the problem that resulted in euthanasia or slaughter and correlated ultrasonographic (US) and computed tomograp...
Ostium-specific equine pulmonary vein myocardial sleeve gross anatomy and structural evidence of interatrial myocardial continuity with potential implications for ablation strategies. Pulmonary vein (PV) myocardial sleeves (MSs) harbour an arrhythmogenic substrate for atrial fibrillation. However, equine-specific data on MS distribution and wall thickness are limited yet essential for developing ablation strategies. In humans, posterior interatrial connections can compromise right-sided PV isolation. Objective: To study equine PV MS distribution, quantify ostial/branch diameters, antral lengths, characterise MS distal edge morphology, measure wall thickness and explore an interatrial myocardial continuity between the MSs of caudal branches draining through ostium III (PV II...
Adaptive variation in butyrylcholinesterase-influenced lipid metabolism during horse domestication. Lipid metabolism influences horse athletic performance, yet its genetic basis remains unclear. Here, we investigate the genetic basis of lipid metabolic traits by quantifying key metabolic parameters and sequencing the genomes of 298 horses. We identify a missense mutation (ECA19:9,198,989, G>C) in the BCHE gene that is strongly associated with lipid metabolism, especially butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activity. The "C" allele is associated with increased BChE activity and reduced intracellular triglyceride levels, hepatic adiposity, and overall fat mass, highlighting a central role for BCHE in...
[Puncture wounds of the equine hoof – a retrospective study of 96 cases – Part 2: Management and prognosis]. Puncture wounds are a common and potentially life-threatening injury in equine veterinary practice. The aim of this study was to systematically analyze data from horses presenting to the clinic with a puncture wound. Unassigned: A retrospective study was conducted on patient data from horses with a puncture wound in the period from September 2008 to August 2024. Analyzed data included medical management and surgical treatment, complications, duration and costs of hospitalization, short-term survival rate and treatment success. Unassigned: A total of 96 horses met the inclusion criteria. Seven ...
Relationship Between Feed Olfactory Exploration and Consumption in Horses. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between horses' behaviour during olfactory exploration and following consumption of the same food containing herbs, either previously exposed to the herb odour or not. Twenty horses' responses to 14 herbs were compared in a smelling test, when the horses sniffed a herb, and after 20 min a consumption test, when they consumed oats mixed with the same herb. Before the tests, the horses were exposed to the scent of seven herbs, whereas the remaining seven herbs were non-pre-exposed. The results show that horses consumed oats with herbal additi...
Osteosynthesis of bilateral, displaced incisive bone fracture in a horse. A nine-year-old Trakehner mare was presented three days after an episode of severe epistaxis, showing intermittent foul-smelling nasal discharge with feed material and rostral displacement of the upper incisor teeth. Radiographic and computed tomography examinations revealed a complete comminuted fracture of the right side and an oblique complete fracture of the left side nasal processes of the incisive bone and maxillary bone, as well as open fractures of the nasal septum and palatine bone with displacement of the incisor part rostrally and development of an oronasal communication. The fractu...
Effects of pulsed electromagnetic therapy on the major hematological and biochemical parameters in horses. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, a commonly used supplementary treatment in the horse industry, shows promise in enhancing circulation, reducing inflammation, and supporting cellular repair; however, its effects on equine physiology remain unclear. Limited research and inconsistent protocols create uncertainty about its efficacy and safety in horses. Our study evaluates the short-term effects of PEMF on hematological and biochemical parameters in horses. Five active sport horses underwent PEMF therapy for five consecutive days using a full-body blanket at specific frequencies. Bloo...
Alpha-2-Macroglobulin-Enriched Plasma Modulates Inflammatory and Proteolytic Pathways in Experimental Equine Musculoskeletal Models. Joint inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation are major contributors to the development of equine osteoarthritis and reduced athletic performance. Alpha-2-macroglobulin is a naturally occurring broad-spectrum inhibitor of proteases and inflammatory mediators that has emerged as a promising orthobiologic therapy. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory and matrix-protective effects of alpha-2-macroglobulin-enriched plasma in complementary in vitro and ex vivo equine models. Primary equine chondrocytes and synoviocytes isolated from healthy horses were stimulated with interleukin...
Transforming retraining: Supporting racehorses to have successful second careers. Optimizing long-term welfare outcomes for Thoroughbred racehorses following retirement from racing is a priority across the global horse racing industry. Following their racing career, horses are required to adapt to a markedly different lifestyle, involving substantial physical, behavioural, and mental adjustment. This study consulted experienced retrainers to identify factors that inform successful retraining and transition of former racehorses to promote positive lifelong outcomes beyond racing. An online survey of 100 global stakeholders experienced in retraining former racehorses explor...
Semi-extensive management system drives lower prevalence of equine orodental disorders. The prevalence of orodental disorders in horses kept under different management systems is lacking. More detailed knowledge is needed to support targeted therapeutic and prophylactic approaches, as these conditions play a crucial role in maintaining equine health and welfare. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of orodental disorders in horses raised, kept, and fed under extensive, semi-extensive, or intensive management systems. Unassigned: Sixty-nine clinically healthy adult crossbred horses with no history of dental treatment were examined, with 23 horses included in each study group...
In Vivo Metabolite Formation and In Vitro Cytochrome P450-Mediated Metabolism of Vonoprazan in Horses. Vonoprazan is a potassium-competitive acid blocker with potential for the treatment of equine gastric ulcer syndrome. Vonoprazan metabolic pathways in horses have not been characterized. This study aimed to identify vonoprazan metabolites following oral administration and to determine the metabolic enzymes responsible for their metabolism using in vitro models. Six healthy adult Thoroughbred horses received vonoprazan (0.5 and 1 mg/kg PO) in a randomized crossover design. Plasma concentrations of vonoprazan-N-oxide (M-I) and vonoprazan-nitrone (M-III) were quantified using a validated liquid...
Measuring Activity-Rest Condition by Using Two Different Accelerometer Devices in Trained and Retired Horses. To advance technological applications in animal welfare assessment, this study evaluated resting activity as a component of total locomotor activity (TLA) in horses using two different accelerometer devices: a collar-mounted device containing a single-axis accelerometer that records physical movement, and a three axes accelerometer that classifies the measured physical activity into nine different activities. Ten clinically healthy Italian saddle horses were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups on the basis of their lifestyle. Group A consisted of regularly trained horses housed c...
First-time description of MHC diversity in Straight Egyptian Arabian horses using immune-linked microsatellite markers. Understanding the immunogenetic structure of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in Arabian horses helps to clarify the population health structure-related phenotypes of this historically influential breed. Straight Egyptian (SE) Arabian horses, which fall under , are of global value but are limited in number, raising concerns about their distribution and the genetic diversity associated with immunity. In this study, we examined 57 Egyptian Arabian horses from two breeding programs: one in Germany (AR-DE) and the other in Qatar (AR-QA). Sixteen polymorphic intra-MHC microsatellite marke...
Prevalence, distribution, and associated risk factors of major equine endoparasitic infections in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Endoparasites remain major constraints on equine health and productivity in Ethiopia; however, epidemiological data from northwestern regions are limited. This study investigated the occurrence, parasite diversity, infection intensity, and risk factors associated with endoparasite infections in equines in northwestern Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted using coprological examinations complemented by postmortem inspections. Standard parasitological techniques were employed, and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of infection. Data were analyz...
Epidural 0.125% ropivacaine is safe but insufficient for induced tibiotarsal joint pain. Epidural injection of a low concentration of the local anaesthetic ropivacaine produces analgesia without neurological deficits or ileus in people. Objective: To determine if epidural 0.125% ropivacaine mitigates induced hindlimb lameness in horses while preserving neurological function and gastrointestinal (GI) motility. Methods: Randomised, blinded, controlled, crossover study. Methods: Eight healthy, sound horses underwent two treatments in random order, separated by at least 3 weeks: epidural saline or epidural ropivacaine. For each treatment, an epidural catheter was inserted at the fir...
Leishmania spp. infection in horses in an endemic area of canine leishmaniosis (north-western Algeria). Leishmaniosis is a parasitic disease caused by obligate intracellular protozoa of the genus Leishmania. It affects humans, canids, and rodents in endemic areas and is transmitted through the bites of infected sand flies. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of equine leishmaniosis in horses from Tiaret Province, northwestern Algeria, an area endemic for canine leishmaniosis, and to identify the main risk factors associated with infection. The study included 75 local Barb horses and employed molecular and serological techniques for the detection of Leishmania infection. Among the sampled...
Administration of the Postbiotic Substance 412 to Slovak Warm-Blooded Horses: A Pilot Experiment. Antimicrobial proteinaceous postbiotic substances (PS) and/or bacteriocins can beneficially influence animal health, as previously shown with enterocins from non-autochthonous enterococcal strains. Therefore, the effectiveness of PS 412, produced by our beneficial autochthonous strain EF 412, was assessed in horses. In the pilot experiment, PS 412 was administered to 12 horses of various ages and breeds for 21 days via a small feed ball. Sampling was performed on days 0/1, 21, and 42 (after a 3-week cessation of PS 412). The horses served as their own controls. Although the number of horses w...
Thermographic analysis of chiropractic care on the back health of Mangalarga Marchador horses. Poor saddle fit can cause back pain and lesions in horses, highlighting the need for preventive therapies. Objective: To evaluate the effects of chiropractic treatment on the backs of Mangalarga Marchador horses using infrared thermography to monitor thermal changes associated with saddle-induced overload. Methods: Physiological, environmental, thermographic, and chiropractic parameters were evaluated in 13 horses subjected to a standardized 25-min exercise session. Animals were assigned to either a control group (GC, n = 6) or a chiropractic treatment group (GT, n = 7). Assessments were c...
Factors Associated With Corneal Ulceration in Horses: 420 Cases (2020-2023). To evaluate how environmental and other risk factors are associated with the prevalence of corneal ulceration in horses presenting to equine emergency veterinarians in the Western United States. Methods: Retrospective study conducted from May 2020 to November 2023. Methods: Equine field and hospital practice in the Western United States. Methods: Four hundred twenty horses with corneal ulceration, confirmed by clinical examination and fluorescein staining, of any underlying cause. Methods: None. Results: The primary study outcomes were the association between environmental factors (wind speed,...
Questionnaire-Based Investigation into Stallion Management Practices in 28 Countries. Modern stud farm practices may limit stallion social contact, with potential welfare and safety implications. Objective: To describe housing, management and safety outcomes for stallions kept at horse breeding operations throughout the world and to assess regional differences. Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed via mailing lists and WhatsApp; 116 complete responses from breeding operations were collected and analysed. The focus was on management of the breeding facility, and stallion welfare indicated by management, handling and housing. Results: Respondents were from Europe (40....
Evaluation of a commercial multiplex immunoassay for assessing uterine inflammation in mares susceptible to persistent breeding-induced endometritis. Persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE) is characterized by a prolonged and dysregulated uterine inflammatory response following breeding. Although inflammatory cytokines are central to the post-breeding immune response, their assessment in the equine uterus has historically relied largely on gene expression analyses. Multiplex immunoassays provide an opportunity to simultaneously quantify multiple cytokine proteins within uterine secretions; however, the application of equine-specific multiplex immunoassays utilizing the Luminex platform to low-volume uterine lavage (LVL) fluid remain...
Validation of a handheld smartphone markerless method for quantifying thoracolumbar flexion-extension range of motion in horses at trot. Back pain and poor performance in horses are difficult to assess objectively and thoracolumbar flexion-extension range of motion (FE) is not reliably evaluated by subjective observation alone. A handheld, smartphone-based markerless computer vision system (RealHorse®; RH) may enable objective clinical and field-based FE assessment but requires validation against an established optical motion capture reference system (Qualisys®; QS). Objective: To compare the accuracy and precision of RH relative to QS for measuring FE in horses trotting on a straight line and on a circle. Methods: Cross-sect...
Equine Sarcoid: From BPV-Driven Oncogenesis to Host-Sustained Tumor Persistence. Equine sarcoid is the most common cutaneous neoplasm of equids and represents a distinctive model of virus-associated tumor persistence. Although bovine papillomaviruses, particularly BPV-1 and BPV-2, are recognized as the main etiological agents, viral infection alone does not fully explain the clinical heterogeneity, frequent recurrence, and limited spontaneous regression of these lesions. This review summarizes current evidence on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying equine sarcoid pathogenesis, with emphasis on the interaction between BPV infection, host signaling pathways, tum...
The Effect of Different Extenders and Testicular Anaesthesia During Orchiectomy on Post-Thawed Spermatological Parameters of Stallion Epididymal Spermatozoa. Cryopreservation of epididymal stallion spermatozoa is a valuable tool for fertility preservation, particularly after orchiectomy. However, the potential interactions between local anaesthesia and extender composition on post-thaw spermatozoal quality remain poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of intratesticular lidocaine injection and the efficacy of various extender (egg yolk [EY] vs. lecithin [LC]) and cryoprotectant (glycerol [GLY] vs. dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO]) combinations on stallion epididymal spermatological parameters. Using a paired factorial design, epididymal s...
Intratracheal Leiomyosarcoma in a 13-Year-Old German Riding Pony Mare. A 13-year-old German Riding Pony mare was referred for evaluation of progressive respiratory noise and mixed dyspnoea, which rapidly deteriorated to respiratory distress. Clinical examination revealed marked rattling inspiratory and expiratory tracheal sounds and severe, rattling, vesicular lung sounds. Arterial blood gas analysis demonstrated moderate hypoxaemia (partial pressure of arterial oxygen 76 mmHg at rest). Upper airway endoscopy identified a pink, cauliflower-like pedunculated mass originating from the dorsal tracheal wall approximately 15 cm cranial to the tracheal bifurcation, cau...
The effects of diet on the physical characteristics of feces and fiber digestibility in healthy horses. Diet is a known risk factor for colic, but few studies have explored how diet affects fecal characteristics which are often altered in horses with colic. This prospective cross-over study evaluated the effects of two common equine diets on fecal characteristics and fiber digestibility in healthy adult horses. We hypothesized that horses offered a complete pelleted diet would exhibit increased fecal dry matter (DM) and decreased fecal particle size compared to those offered a forage-based diet. Twenty horses at Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine served as subjects in the study....
Effects of the Freezing Diluent Tonicity and Prefreezing Cooling Rates on Post-Thaw Sperm Quality Markers in the Pure-Bred Arabian Stallion. Stallion semen cryopreservation remains limited by inconsistent post-thaw sperm quality and fertility. This study evaluated the effects of freezing extender effective tonicity and prefreezing cooling rate on post-thaw sperm characteristics in pure-bred Arabian stallions. In a two-phase design, ejaculates ( = 40) from 10 stallions were processed using extenders with different osmotic conditions (330, 390, and 450 mOsm/kg) and subjected to cooling durations of 45 min, 1.5 h, or 3 h. Sperm quality was assessed using CASA, functional assays, flow cytometry, transcriptomic analysis, and...
Effect of equine flysheets on fly avoidance behaviours, body temperature, stress level, and heart rate. Flysheet use is common without any published scientific evidence to justify their use. Objective: To demonstrate the effectiveness of flysheets at reducing fly avoidance behaviours and measuring changes in body temperature, heart rate, and cortisol levels. Methods: Ten-week alternating crossover design. Methods: Five horses were enrolled. Flysheets were alternated (ON, OFF) between groups weekly for 10 weeks. Fly avoidance behaviours were recorded for 30 min once weekly. Cortisol samples were collected before flysheet application or removal, and again 10 min later. Star-Oddi data loggers...
