Patterns of feeding and behaviour in horses recovering from dysautonomia (grass sickness).

The study focuses on evaluating the behavioral and feeding changes observed in three horses which had recovered from a condition known as dysautonomia or grass sickness.

Research Overview

The research investigates the behavior and dietary changes in horses post-recovery from grass sickness. The severity of clinical symptoms varied among the three horses studied, but all displayed significant and often unpredictable changes in their behavior and appetite.

Research Methodology and Findings

The research explores the following aspects:

• The study followed three horses, each presenting with different severity levels of grass sickness. This series of case studies provided an analysis of how grass sickness impacts horses even after their recovery.
• Considerable attention was placed on understanding the erratic changes the horses exhibited in both behavior and eating habits post disease. This included the quantity and quality of food consumed, changes in preference for certain foods, and the time taken to finish a meal.
• The findings showed that even after recovery, the horses had changed their eating habits considerably, with fluctuations in appetite. The research also noted unpredictable changes in their normal behavior. These changes might be a direct consequence of the grass sickness and its damaging effects, which the study suggests could last longer than the active disease period.

Implications of the Research

• This study highlights the effect dysautonomia or grass sickness can have on horse behaviour and diet even after successful treatment, possibly indicating long-term after-effects of the disease.
• The research is significant for informing appropriate clinical care strategies, as it indicates that horses may require additional support and specific after-care, focused on behavioural and dietary aspects after their recovery from grass sickness.
• Further research may be necessary to elaborate on these findings and more definitively establish the extent and permanence of post-recovery changes in behaviour and appetite in horses inflicted with grass sickness.