Enema in the horse. Distribution and rehydrating effect.

This research study investigates the effect of enemas in horses, specifically their distribution within the animal and the potential rehydrating impact. The experiment involved administering enemas to two groups of horses that had fasted for different durations, and examining the effects on water, acid-base status, and electrolyte levels.

Experiment and Results

• Two groups of horses were studied, with one group fasting for 1 hour and the other fasting for 18 hours. Each group received an enema containing a water-soluble marker.
• Findings revealed that, in most cases, the marker was not found orally in the horse’s pelvic flexure, a portion of their large intestine. A single exception was documented, suggesting that fasting could potentially increase the flow of the enema in an oral direction.
• The results suggested possible implications related to the treatment of large intestinal impactions, conditions in which the passage of food through the horse’s gut is blocked.

Analysis on Water, Electrolyte and Acid-Base Status

• Next, the researchers examined the effect of the enemas on horses dehydrated using furosemide, a diuretic medicine that promotes the production of urine. They looked at the enema’s impact on water balance, acid-base status, and electrolyte levels, specifically potassium.
• The enemas were associated with a moderate acidifying effect, meaning it resulted in a decrease in pH, thus making the horse’s system more acidic. It also led to a hypokalemic effect, indicating a less-than-normal level of potassium in the horse’s blood.
• However, there was no appreciable impact demonstrated on the water balance in the horse’s body, potentially questioning the rehydrating effect of the enemas.

Conclusion and Further Research

• Ultimately, the researchers could not definitively conclude that enemas have a rehydrating effect on horses.
• They suggested further questioning and investigation into the method used, indicating the need for additional research to provide conclusive evidence regarding the rehydrating effects of enemas in horses.