March 29, 2024
Horses are strong and majestic animals. However, they are also prone to a few diseases and ailments such as colic, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. As a responsible horse owner, you want to keep your horse healthy and happy. The first step in this direction is to understand basic equine health. It is the foundation of your lasting friendship with your equine companion. Here’s what you need to know.
Learn About These Common Equine Ailments
Understanding equine ailments is the first thing you need to do as a horse owner. This knowledge can prove helpful in keeping your horses healthy. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Lameness
Lameness is one of the most common equine ailments. It can manifest in various forms, from a slight stiffness to an evident limp. Its causes can also range from musculoskeletal issues to hoof problems.
You will need to carefully observe your horse for gait abnormalities, swelling, or reluctance to bear weight on one of their legs. Alternatively, you can use detection methods like flexion tests and diagnostic imaging. It can aid in identifying the root cause and creating an effective treatment plan.
2. Colic
Although this isn’t a horse-specific disease per se, colic can cause health issues. It can directly impact your horse’s digestive well-being, which can severely affect the rest of their bodily health. It includes various types, such as spasmodic, impaction, or torsion colic.
It has subtle signs, including restlessness, pawing, or rolling. If you see these signs, call a vet immediately. You will need to monitor vital signs. Sometimes, you may need to give medications as advised.
3. Respiratory Issues
Like their human companions, horses can also grapple with respiratory challenges. Usually, environmental factors can cause respiratory issues. However, horse diseases like strangles, equine influenza, and equine herpes viruses can cause respiratory issues.
Labored breathing, coughing, or nasal discharge are critical signs of respiratory issues with your horse. If the cause is environmental, maintain a dust-free environment and proper ventilation. If you suspect a horse disease, call a vet immediately.
4. Skin Conditions
Your horse’s coat tells you about their overall equine health. Skin conditions often include issues such as rain rot or sweet itch. These could also indicate underlying health conditions ranging from fungal infections to allergies. Your treatment options may include topical solutions or dietary adjustments. In severe cases, you may need vet-prescribed medications to restore your horse’s skin health.
5. Digestive Disorders
Your horse needs to have a healthy digestive system. It’s the backbone of overall equine health, just like humans. So, digestive disorders – such as gastric ulcers to hindgut imbalances – demand your immediate attention.
The signs of discomfort include changes in appetite or weight loss. Your vet may prescribe medication if needed. However, you should consider a few dietary factors like feeding small, frequent meals and providing access to forage. It can help overcome this common horse ailment.
Understand Preventive Measures
Consider preventive measures as your first line of defense in protecting basic equine health and making sure your horse can live a long and healthy life. Here’s what you can do:
1. Proper Nutrition
As an owner, you may know that the cornerstone of basic equine health lies in a well-balanced diet. Make sure your feeding practices can meet your horse’s nutritional needs. Consult a vet or dietary expert if needed.
2. Regular Veterinary Care
Another critical step in basic equine health is scheduling routine check-ups and vaccinations. Just like your car needs an annual tune-up, your horse also needs annual check-ups. Make your trusted equine veterinarian your partner in preventive care. They can help you identify potential issues before they escalate.
3. Exercise and Conditioning
Just like an athlete, your horse also needs regular exercise. It not only keeps your horse healthy but also helps prevent future injuries
4. Environmental Management
Creating a safe and healthy living environment for your horse is non-negotiable. From secure fencing to proper shelter, a well-managed environment minimizes risks and maximizes their well-being.
5. Hygiene and Grooming
Cleanliness is crucial for overall equine health. Regular grooming prevents infections that can sneak in through neglect.
For Healing Devices That Can Help, Check Out Gladiator Equine
Recognizing and preventing common horse diseases is a profound expression of care as a horse owner. Learning about common horse ailments and diseases and practicing preventive care can help keep your equine companions in excellent health, but you can’t stop everything. Sometimes, your horse will develop a disease, and when that happens, Gladiator Equine can help.
Gladiator Equine is your ally in your quest to help your horse’s health. Our products, like the PTR™ Bell Boots, Reign Ease® PRO, and PTR™ Fetlock Wraps, can help your equine companions lead healthy lives. Contact us to learn more.
