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Veterinary Medicine

Expert Rachel A. Pemstein, VMD

Questions (For answers, scroll down or click on question)

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My broodmare is five months pregnant.   She leaks urine sometimes.  Is this something I should be concerned with?

My husband and I are researching horse colic and we have many questions: How many horses are there in the United States?
How many horses will exhibit colic symptoms in their lifetime? What is the average cost to treat a horse with colic? How many horses will die from colic?

I have an 8 year old thoroughbred mare who started jerking (not shaking) her head about 1 1/2 years ago...  Any suggestions? 

I am looking for information on treatment for a horse that has a condition called "upward fixation of the patella".

We are looking at a nine year old gelding, 16.3 hands, 1300 lbs, that was nerved on both front, 8/98.  My daughter is interested in dressage and this horse has training in that area.  How does nerving affect long term?  Would it affect the horse's performance in dressage?

My two year old quarter horse developed some type of problem on the bottom and outer edge of her ear (at age one) which seems to drain constantly leaving an ugly crusty build up... Do you have any ideas what we are dealing with?

I am searching for answers in desperation to cure my horse of a stifle problem.  He has had surgery on both of his legs.  A year later I was competing in our clubs Gymkahna around some barrels and then the next morning I noticed he was dragging his leg again.  I would appreciate any information that would explain about stifles, information on exercise for stifles, or if it could be something other than this.  I have had the vet check him again and he feels it is the stifle.

I have a three week old, TrakehnerXTB foal.  He was born approximately three weeks premature.  Along with some minor "premie" symptoms, which he seems to have caught up with already, his off fore was quite severely crooked from the knee down... I am looking for any information on this problem (causes, treatment, prognosis) that I can find...Your input would be greatly appreciated.

How can you test what colors horses can see best?

I have a 7/8 arab that was born this year (98) and is very correct, but has just developed bog spavins.  He is on alfalfa hay (about 18% protein) and gets 1/2 gallon of foal ration every day.  He has been dewormed every 8 weeks.  Can you tell me why he would develop this?

Do horses in northern Idaho, Coeurd'alene, need to be wormed in the winter months?  I've been told that they don't need wormed till late spring because of frost/snow.

What information can you give me about muscle problems (tying up and myoglobinuria)?

Does time of castration alter growth related to height, bone mass, and muscle mass?  I have heard that you should geld early for height and late for bone and muscle, but have found no documentation to support this.

My mare has been on the receiving end of two nasty kicks to the same hock...  My vet has done x-rays and has ruled out chips or other injury.  She believes it is bursitis based upon a picture in a medical book.  We are doing stall rest, DMSO with cortisone and bute daily... Would you please recommend your treatment of this condition?


Four days ago my mare apparently got her left front foot caught in part of an old wire fence and was cut from the left heel bulb, two thirds way around to the front of her hoof, about 1/4" above the hoof wall.  The wound is deep and open, about 1" in width. The vet was unable to stitch it... The vet is recommending using scarlet oil on the wound.  I have heard from others with similar wound experiences that they preferred using Nitrofurozole ointment instead of scarlet oil.  Would you give your advice on the treatment of such a wound as to what topical to use, as well as later treatment for preventing proud flesh?

Do you recommend horse owners put themselves on a regular worming program?  Many of my friends get Strongid from their physician, even if they have no symptoms.

Can a baby in the womb of a pregnant mare get strangles and pass it to the mother making her very sick?

I live in South Africa.  My 17 year old Anglo part-bred Arab chestnut gelding developed a cough about 2 years ago.  He starts to cough when I work him and then it stops.  It became a bit more serious lately.  After examination, the diagnosis was: must work in a dust free environment, his teff net needs to be wetted, he needs to be out all day on pasture.  Furthermore, they say he has lungworm (a disease spread by donkeys).  Do you have any recommended treatment?


I have a five year old QH mare that always stands with her right back leg cocked.  She seems to ride sound, but I am wondering if I am missing something...  Do you think this is just a habit or could it indicate something else?...  The symptoms don't seem to fit spavin.

What is the best medicine and cure for Rain Rot?

Has there been any new research and cure for EPM (since March 1998)?

My ten year old pony has been tentatively diagnosed with bone spavin.  Injecting his hocks with cortizone has been recommended.  Why would one not try Flex Free to regenerate the joint rather than injecting it to try to degenerate it?  Also, my daughter jumps this pony, he is only stiff, not lame.  Is it safe to jump him?


I have a 14 year old DWB mare that has had several foals with fresh and frozen semen when living in California.  After moving to Arkansas, she came into heat, ovulated well, but wouldn't conceive.  Cultures and biopsies were good, but she did seem to react in an extreme way to the heat and humidity of the new climate by developing an itchy, bumpy skin condition which worsened during the second summer.  This was treated with Azium, then Deltasone.  I have since sent her to NH, hoping the change in climate might allow her to conceive.  Do you know if she may be having an auto-immune reaction and what else can I try?

I recently had my colt vaccinated.  He was given four shots by my vet.  I know he had the rhino, tetanus, and strangles vaccinations.  He developed a lump on his lower neck about a week later.  It has now been one month and the lump is still there (about the size of a small football). The vet has him on an antibiotic (Trimeth Sulfate 960's) but I haven't seen any improvement after three days of trimeth.  Is there one vaccination that causes this reaction more than another?  Should I never have him vaccinated again?

I have heard there is a time released progesterone implant that can be injected under the skin of the neck to keep a mare from coming into heat.  Could you please give me some information on its effectiveness and how long it lasts?

Do you have information or results on the success of Tagamet for melanomas in horses?  Any information on melanomas in general would be helpful.

Could you give me some information on Navicular?


I live in the mountains of North Carolina, average temperature in the winter is 30°F and summer is 80°F.  I have a 14-16 year old QH/TB.  About mid-summer he grows a long, thick winter coat and in November, when cold weather arrives, he sheds out this "winter coat" and has a beautiful spring coat. During the time he has a long coat, he is very lethargic...He acted as though he had severe arthritis; very stiff and swelling in his legs... As soon as he shed his coat, his eyes brightened, his coat shined, and he was bucking with me again...This started approximately 5 years ago and worsens every year...Do you have any idea what is ailing my best friend and is there any way I can help him through his "down" time of year? 

I am competing my 8 year TB in eventing at prelim level. I ride for about 90 minutes a day with one off and one jump lesson a week. There are no problems now, but my vet has recommended using Legend or Adequan as a preventative for lameness problems in the future. Is there any research on which one is more beneficial? He is on Grandflex now.

I'm doing a research paper and am looking for information on the short term benefits and possible long term effects of using "Lasix" in the racing industry.

What immunizations should my horse get? She is 8 years old and travels quite a bit...

What causes problems with the hocks that creates a fluid build-up and/or lesions? How is cortisone used to treat this and how does it relate to synovial fluid?

My very well bred Thoroughbred mare just foaled a still-born. The placenta had red bumps on the inside, the amniotic fluid was a strange dark brown color. The foal was carried perfectly to term. The vet said something about hypotoxic. Any suggestions on what happened and why?

I have a 28 year old gelding that up until now has never shown any stiffness. This spring seems he seems to have discomfort when I pick up his hind feet. Should he be on some painkillers or anti-inflammatories. If so, what and how often?

I have a 10 year old Arabian gelding that over the past couple years has developed a skin condition... It starts as small bumps on his chest, shoulders, left side, and now has appeared under his belly all the way back to the sheath... Any ideas?

My horse rubs his tail out from seasonal allergies from spring to the end of summer. Conventional medicine hasn't worked yet, do you have any suggestions?

Could a 2 year old quarterhorse gelding that is used to being inside get stiff overnight if left outside on cement? Would this be normal? Any other health considerations of putting an inside horse, outside?

My 21 year old Quarterhorse has gone lame in his right front leg suddenly...What could have caused this sudden lameness?

I have an 8 year old gelding that was kicked in the stifle. The skin was not broken and he has never been lame, but has edema in the area. It has been about a week and has not receded. I started him on bute and cold therapy just one day ago. Does this fluid build up require veterinary attention if the horse is not in pain or lame?

My horse has a skin infection on her face. The same type of infection showed up the same time last year (April). Her skin is flaky and the hair falls right out. What can I do to stop it?

Do you know of a good equine dentist in my area - Loveland, Ohio?

I have read that EquiGen, an injectible form of the hormone somatotropin, may help in the aging equine. I have also read the clinical trials conducted by BresaGen. In South Africa I am unable to locate this product or find any data beyond 1998. Do you have any info on it?

I have a 3 year old filly who has developed capped hocks, still in fluid state. The only advice I have received from my vet is to hose legs and apply leg ice. This has not been successful and the vet is reluctant to drain and use cortisone. Is there an alternative treatment?

What are the causes, symptoms, and treatment for Leptospirosis?

Lately my mare has been having difficulty rising from a lying position and favors her left rear leg. She is not always limping and seems to do better after "warming up". Could she have arthritis and what are the treatments?

My 14 year old horse has milky pupils?  Is this a sign of anything?

I have a 16 year old male quarter horse who in June 1998 had a malignant melanoma removed from the sheath. In February 99, the vet removed almond sized "tumors" from the top of his penis. Recently the "tumor" on his sheath has returned, golf ball size.  Can you direct me to a source of information to help answer my many questions?

Can you provide information on the physiological changes that would take place in the circulatory and respiratory systems in a normal, fit thoroughbred that suffered marked blood loss through a wound?

What is contracted tendons and what is the remedy? What are the chances of a full recovery in the case of a foal?

I have a 26 year old gelding who seems to be troubled mostly in the spring and fall with an itchy sheath. This just started about 2 years ago. I've cleaned the sheath using KY jelly and he is still uncomfortable. I don't see any infection.  Any suggestions?

I have an 8 month old colt, black, purebred Arabian. He's in good health... but he chews the manes and tails of my other horses. What causes this and how do I stop him from doing this?

A stud I'm looking to breed to has a turned out foot, rear right. Is this generally a birth defect or a genetic defect? Can it be passed down to his colts?

I own a 6 year old paint. He is about 15 H and, in general, a healthy horse... but he always seems to have some type of lameness.  When we bought him the vet that did the pre-purchase vetting said the only problem was a slight popping in the back hocks... Is there some other solution to all his leg lameness?


I have an 8 1/2 month old Cleveland Bay/Thoroughbred filly. Her one rear fetlock is upright and sometimes bends forward when she stands. It seems fine when she walks and runs. I noticed it is swollen in the morning when she is in, but fine after a day of being outside... Is there something I should be doing about this hind leg?

I have an 11 year old 17 H gray, large built, Thoroughbred. He has been losing weight since September 1989....Any suggestions?

I have a registered Quarter Horse gelding. He was born in 1996 and his pasterns seemed fine then, but they have gradually started sagging, almost to the ground on his hind legs... What could have caused this and is there anything I can do to make it better?  Is there a possibility of lameness in the future? Are there exercises to help strengthen and straighten his pasterns? I was told to used Sports Medicine II Boots on his hind legs when I work him. Will this help? Before I bought him, he was turned out in a pen that was almost all deep mud. Could this have caused the problem?

Do you think an annual coggins test is a worthwhile test?

I live in Paint Lick, Kentucky and have a 10 month old foal that has been showing strange signs of behavior for the last week. I have had my vet here and blood tests are in process and antibiotics are being given. This was a healthy foal that all of a sudden went almost completely off feed and water and became dull, docile, and lethargic. My vet has treated two other horses which have acted similar, only to die soon after. These horses were sent to UK for autopsies and were diagnosed with "Colitis X". Are you aware of any research, treatment, preventative measures, or vaccines on this disease?


I have a 10 month old colt with a back injury. He has been to 3 vets and was given an anti-inflammatory medicine on 3/4/99.  He still isn't able to get up.  Is there anything I can try?

I have a 13 month old gelding who has warts on his lips, chin, nose, and eyelids. I had a vet remove some of the warts two weeks ago. Now, there seem to be more. Is there anything I can buy on the market to remove the warts? I'm showing halter in May and won't be able to if the warts aren't gone.


My vet recently added Quest to our worming schedule and my 13 year old TWH gelding seemed to have a bout of bad diarrhea after worming. He weighs about 1200 lbs. and is never sick, so I am a bit concerned. Has this product been out a sufficient length of time to know the problems?

I have a 9 year old, white, Leopard Appaloosa that I just bought that has cataracts. He seems to see perfectly now, but seems sensitive to light. Is there any treatment and, if so, how successful is it?

I need information on cures, management, concerns, and use of a 14 year old King bred gelding with heaves.

My horse is an 18 year old Hanoverian that was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor about 5 years ago... This year, he developed laminitis, but has never been lame before. Can this be attributed to the tumor and can anything be done? He is on thyroid medication. Where can I get more information on endocrine diseases?

My lovely Thoroughbred mare has produced 3 foals for me, out of Paint stallions, and the three and four year olds have had numerous coordination problems and injuries or unsoundness. Who can I contact regarding neurological/rapid growth problems?

Prospective horse (free) has fallen back leg fetlocks and has only been used for breeding for 11 years. Can corrective shoeing or back leg protection help her on trail riding or should I pass on the horse and leave her for breeding only?

I have an anglo mare that "ties-up" very severely even after light exercise. I have her on a selenium supplement and bland diet, but it still happens. Any suggestions?

Are there any special health concerns to be aware of when horses and cattle are pastured together?

My 4 year old gelding is diagnosed with an upper fixation of the patella. His hind leg is stiff at the stifle joint and he has trouble with a smooth lift, he must drag the toe forward and then 'pop' it into place. The vet recommended exercise on hills. He was not broke to ride at the time of the diagnosis and we have little to no hills, therefore, no exercise program was started. A year has gone by with little or no change to his leg. Have I encouraged the leg to become worse or can I start an exercise program now with no ill side effects? Should he be evaluated again?

Could you please provide me with some information on pedal osteitis?...Would riding my horse diagnosed with this make the condition advance or is it self limiting?

I own a 6 year old Connemara/Morgan cross mare....When she is on the bit and working properly through the back, she makes a roaring type noise in sync with her breathing. This does not appear when we are "off" the bit, even at a canter or a gallop. Does this indicate an impediment somewhere to her breathing? Could it be brought on by muscle tension somewhere when on the bit?

What are the chances for a 15 month old colt to recover from EDM? Could this colt ever be ridden?

My horse became tangled in a rope and received a rope burn on the back side of his hind foot just above his hoof. We had a vet give him an injection of tetnus antitoxon and are applying trypzime-v spray to the area. Is there anything else I can do for him? How long should I expect a wound such as this to heal?

Would you please give information about a disease called "Anthrax"?

What are the implications for an 8 year old quarter horse who has a muscle/nerve condition called "shivers"?

Can you tell me a fast and effective treatment for existing hock sores and how to prevent them? My horse is turned out on grass and has a lot of bedding in his stall.

After being exercised my Paint mare (presently in heat) stands with her back legs stretched out.  Does she do this because her back legs are too long and is this serious or painful for the horse?

I have a 3 year old TB filly that I race. She has a chronic respiratory infection. She has had all antibiotics, including ampicillin (3 times), but it reoccurs in about 10 days. She is on equistern once every 2 weeks. The whole barn has been washed with bleach and no other horse has this problem. What formula can you recommend for making an effective nebulizing medication?

My 11 year old AQHA gelding was diagnosed with nervascular disease.  What is it? I was told to shoe him differently and to think about expensive medicine or a 50-50 surgery. Is he ever going to be show quality or is he out to pasture forever?

What are the options of treatment for a wheezing horse?

Our gelding tripped while being ridden and is now lame in his left hind and I hear a snapping noise as he brings the leg forward. I can't detect any heat or swelling in the leg, but am concerned about his hip area or his hock. Any suggestions?

A pre-purchase exam on a 13 year old Appendix mare revealed light epistaxis from left nostril after minimal lunging. Endoscopic exam gave diagnosis of a fungal plaque located in left nasal cavity. Mare is in good condition, a bit on the heavy side, 15.2H. Previous owners stated this happened once last year. Vaccinations and worming up to date. I am planning on using the horse in western pleasure competition, pleasure riding, and breeding. Could you give more information on this problem?

Is it necessary to keep a newborn foal and its dam off fescue pasture? Will fescue interfere with growth and development of the newborn? If so, what age is it safe to put the young horse on fescue pasture?

What is suspensory desmitis? Could you please explain what happens to the cells/fibers on a physiological level? Is this usually trauma induced, or does conformation predispose a horse to develop this? Is the condition progressive? Is there an effective treatment?

What does it mean when a horse has "slipped his hocks" or "slipped his Achilles tendons"? What is the prognosis for a horse with this type of injury?

We have a 17 year old gelding with the "heaves". We are getting minimal results from ventipulmin and dexaject. Any suggestions? He is a pasture horse, but does have access to round bales of hay.

My 10 year old Peruvian Paso is suffering with suspensory injury in both hind legs. University Davis ultra sounded and recommended extended shoes, bute and rest, but he is not improving. He is in pain, moves from one hind to the other and puts the toe down first. Do you have any suggestions to improve his condition?

My 18 year old Quarter Horse has just been diagnosed with Degenerative Joint Disease. My vet has him on a course of Adequan, 1 shot every 4 days and then once a month. She says I should continue doing this for the rest of his life. Is there anything else I could do for him? How much riding can I do when the lameness goes away in a few weeks?

What would be a safe dose of Black Cohosh herbal for my mare to minimize her nasty attitude during her heat cycle?

My 2 year old filly eats with her head tilted to the right and her neck stretched out. Her teeth have been floated twice, but has not corrected the way she eats. Her mane is getting very thin. There are no ear problems that I am aware of. Any suggestions?

What symptoms does the horse exhibit if he is experiencing kidney stones or urinary tract problems?

What is the prognosis for a newborn filly that is diagnosed with an angular limb deformity (right hind leg in the fetlock joint)? ... What can my expectations be for her ability to be used as a broodmare? Do you have any information regarding research on the cause of this condition?

My 11 year old Thoroughbred mare was raced 26 times. I am now showing her dressage and am careful to make each show a positive experience for her. She has developed frequent, loose stools starting as early as preparing to load to go to a show and continuing through the show. When we get home, her movements are back to normal. Is it possible she could have developed a nervous stomach? Should I try probios or ignore it?

My horse has white crusty bumps in both ears, making it hard to bridle. How can I get rid of these bumps?

I would like information on what HYPP is and if there are many kinds of it? What should I feed my older horse who has this?

Is there a safe, special paint that can be used on fencing to discourage horses from cribbing and wind sucking?

Can you recommend where I might obtain a horse map - something that shows and names all the exterior body parts of the horse?

I have been told that my horse has a stifle in both legs from hard ranch riding and that I should put whit linament oil on it to ease it. A trainer looked at him and said that it does not seem to be bad. What recommendation of treatment do you give for this condition?

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Questions and Answers


Q: My broodmare is five months pregnant.   She leaks urine sometimes.  Is this something I should be concerned with?

A: This is probably due to pressure on the bladder by the fetus and would not be something to worry about.  But I would make sure what you are seeing is normal urine and not a discharge that could indicate an infection or some other problem. 

 

Q: My husband and I are researching horse colic and we have many questions:

  • How many horses are there in the United States?
  • How many horses will exhibit colic symptoms in their lifetime?
  • What is the average cost to treat a horse with colic?
  • How many horses will die from colic?

A: According to the American Horse Council there are approximately 6.9 million horses in the U.S. As to the rest of your questions, colic is a very broad term that essentially means "belly ache". There is a wide range of severity of colic, from mild signs of abdominal discomfort that do not require treatment, to severe pain that requires surgical intervention. Most cases of colic respond to medical treatment, but that depends on a number of factors such as, the type, severity, time span, frequency, etc. The cost of treatment will vary with what needs to be done to the horse. There have been studies done to attempt to answer some of your questions but it is hard to collect the data necessary for accurate conclusions. Dr. J. Moore at the University of Georgia Veterinary School may have more information for you. 

 

Q: I have an 8 year old thoroughbred mare who started jerking (not shaking) her head about 1 1/2 years ago.  This is not a habit.  We have treated her for an ear infection and tested her for everything known to man.  I have had a chiropractor working on her recently, with limited results.   She will seem better for a few days after the chiropractor comes, and then she is as bad as ever.  She was jumping 4' before this happened and starting to show competitively.  Any suggestions? 

A: I am not able to understand what you mean by "head jerker". Does she only do this when being ridden, or eating? If she has been examined by a veterinarian and he or she has ruled out a medical problem, the only suggestions I could make would be to examine her mouth and see if the bit fits her properly, or if her teeth need floating. Also your trainer may have some suggestions concerning the tack she is ridden in and the way she is ridden.  

 

Q: I am looking for information on treatment for a horse that has a condition called "upward fixation of the patella". 

A: In this condition the horse "locks" his stifle in extension and is unable to flex the leg. It is not uncommon for young horses to do this intermittently and most improve with muscular development and maturity. Treatment starts with exercising the horse consistently including hill work. If, however, the fixation is more severe, one can try injecting counterirritants into the middle and medial patellar ligaments. If this does not help the problem, then surgery, cutting the medial patellar ligament, might be indicated.   

 

Q: We are looking at a nine year old gelding, 16.3 hands, 1300 lbs, that was nerved on both front, 8/98.  My daughter is interested in dressage and this horse has training in that area.  How does nerving affect long term?  Would it affect the horse's performance in dressage?

A: It is hard to predict how nerving will affect a particular horse. Responses vary with each horse, some get immediate relief, some still require special shoeing and/or medication, and others remain off. Complications may arise, and others are sound and problem free for years. There is no way to assess this horse’s ability to perform in the long term after only 2 months since surgery.   

 

Q: My two year old quarter horse developed some type of problem on the bottom and outer edge of her ear (at age one) which seems to drain constantly leaving an ugly crusty build up.  Our vet thought it was perhaps a tooth, but it wasn't.  Thought also by lancing the ear and pulling out what was probably a defect (inward tissue growth), it would take care of it, but the procedure did not help.  The ear is still running and a clear jelly-like substance comes from the area when pressure is applied.  The vet is unsure he has experienced anything quite like it, but certain it shouldn't be cancer.  Do you have any ideas what we are dealing with?

A: You might be dealing with an "Ear Tooth" or an abscess, or cyst. A radiograph and/or ultrasound may help to diagnose the problem and suggest a proper therapy.   

 

Q: I am searching for answers in desperation to cure my horse of a stifle problem.  He has had surgery on both of his legs.  A year later I was competing in our clubs Gymkahna around some barrels and then the next morning I noticed he was dragging his leg again.  I would appreciate any information that would explain about stifles, information on exercise for stifles, or if it could be something other than this.  I have had the vet check him again and he feels it is the stifle.

A: Without examining your horse, I could not comment if it is his stifles that are again bothering him, but if your vet examined him, and came to that conclusion you have to proceed as that is the case. You do not say what kind of surgery or for what condition your horse was operated on. Usually developing the hind end muscles will help with some stifle problems. Hills and cavellati work may help. Barrel racing is particularly stressful on stifles and may be too much for this horse.   

 

Q: I have a three week old, TrakehnerXTB foal.  He was born approximately three weeks premature.  Along with some minor "premie" symptoms, which he seems to have caught up with already, his off fore was quite severely crooked from the knee down.  I don't remember the terminology our vet gave the condition but surgery was done on the growth plate of the knee at ten days of age.  He has been confined to his stall since birth and our vet will check him in another week.  I am looking for any information on this problem (causes, treatment, prognosis) that I can find.  Our vet seemed quite positive that it is correctable.   I really don't have any idea why the delivery was premature.  Mom's care and nutrition have been 'by the book'.  Your input would be greatly appreciated.

A: Three weeks is not necessarily premature, gestation in the mare is quite variable. "Crooked" legs occur in many foals ( and we would love to know why, that is a $64 million question) and often self correct with a little time. However if the foal appears to be getting worse, there are surgeries that can help to straighten the leg. It sounds like your vet did a "periosteal elevation" a common procedure for this problem. There are other methods and surgical options one can consider when faced with a crooked leg, depending on the age of the foal, location, and severity of the condition. The prognosis for most is quite good and I’d be surprised if you can tell which leg was the problem next year. 

 

Q: How can you test what colors horses can see best?

A: I have no idea, but will try to research this. 

 

Q: I have a 7/8 arab that was born this year (98) and is very correct, but has just developed bog spavins.  He is on alfalfa hay (about 18% protein) and gets 1/2 gallon of foal ration every day.  He has been dewormed every 8 weeks.  Can you tell me why he would develop this?

A: Please see earlier reply on bone and bog spavin.  Your horse is young and growing.  Sometimes bog spavins occur as a developmental change in response to excessive exercise.  As long as there is not an underlying OCD lesion and you restrict his exercise, he will probably grow out of it. 

 

Q: Do horses in northern Idaho, Coeurd'alene, need to be wormed in the winter months?  I've been told that they don't need wormed till late spring because of frost/snow.

A: There are many factors that determine when a horse needs to be wormed.  The age of the horse, the life cycle of the parasites, whether a horse is stalled or out on pasture and how many horses share the pasture all contribute to deciding how frequently your horse needs to be wormed.  Discuss your situation with your vet. 

 

Q: What information can you give me about muscle problems (tying up and myoglobinuria)?

A: Please check previous answers on this subject as this has been discussed before.  Also several horse publications (e.g. Practical Horseman, The Horse, etc.) have written good articles about this subject, check out their archives. 

 

Q: Does time of castration alter growth related to height, bone mass, and muscle mass?  I have heard that you should geld early for height and late for bone and muscle, but have found no documentation to support this.

A: You have not found any documentation because  there isn’t any.  Genetics, nutrition, and exercise determine the growth and development of a young horse and not the time of castration. 

 

Q: My mare has been on the receiving end of two nasty kicks to the same hock.  The first time she had a laceration which was stitched.  The second, while not making a cut, seems to have caused swelling around the hock area.  The majority of the swelling is on the inner portion of the leg just above the hock area.  My vet has done x-rays and has ruled out chips or other injury.  She believes it is bursitis based upon a picture in a medical book.  We are doing stall rest, DMSO with cortisone and bute daily.  The vet stated this could take about a month.  It has been a month since the original injury with stall rest ordered two weeks ago and I haven't seen any decrease in the swelling.  Would you please recommend your treatment of this condition?  Going to a university has not been an option yet because of the winter weather in my area.  I'm afraid that because my vet is not familiar with bursitis that we may be missing a vital link in her treatment.

A: Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa.  Rest, anti-inflammatories, cold water hosing, and bandaging are standard treatments for such a condition.  You may need to have your vet drain the bursa and inject it with a steroid, but first I would have her ultrasound the area to fully determine the nature of the condition. 

 

Q: Four days ago my mare apparently got her left front foot caught in part of an old wire fence and was cut from the left heel bulb, two thirds way around to the front of her hoof, about 1/4" above the hoof wall.  The wound is deep and open, about 1" in width. The vet was unable to stitch it.  It doesn't appear that any major vessels or tendons were cut.  I am doing hydrotherapy on her twice daily, and the vet is recommending using scarlet oil on the wound after that, then bandaging.  I have heard from others with similar wound experiences that they preferred using Nitrofurozole ointment instead of scarlet oil (which apparently hurts to put on). Along with the wound treatment, I am giving her bute paste, 1g. twice daily, and 20 cc penicillin injections twice daily.  Would you give your advice on the treatment of such a wound as to what topical to use, as well as later treatment for preventing proud flesh?

A: It sounds like you are on a good program to get this wound to heal.  Scarlet Oil will help dry out the wound and will help prevent formation of proud flesh.  Nitrofurazone ointment may have been a good choice initially, but it will promote proud flesh and does not have as good an antibacterial spectrum and I would not recommend its use at this stage.  If the Scarlet Oil does not stop exuberant granulation tissue, Nolvasan and Salicylic Acid ointment or a Copper Sulfate Potassium Permanganate solution should do the trick.  Your vet can prescribe these medications for you. 

 

Q: Do you recommend horse owners put themselves on a regular worming program?  Many of my friends get Strongid from their physician, even if they have no symptoms.

A: People do not usually get worms from horses.  I would not recommend taking any medication unless there was a reason for it, and unless your doctor diagnoses a parasite problem in you, then there is no reason to medicate. 

 

Q: Can a baby in the womb of a pregnant mare get strangles and pass it to the mother making her very sick?

A: If a pregnant mare has strangles, it may be possible for the fetus to be infected, but the mare would have it first.  The fetus can not infect the mare. 

 

Q: I live in South Africa.  My 17 year old Anglo part-bred Arab chestnut gelding developed a cough about 2 years ago.  He starts to cough when I work him and then it stops.  It became a bit more serious lately.  After examination, the diagnosis was: must work in a dust free environment, his teff net needs to be wetted, he needs to be out all day on pasture.  Furthermore, they say he has lungworm (a disease spread by donkeys).  Do you have any recommended treatment?

A:  It sounds like you have a “heavey” horse, or one with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.  It may be complicated by a lung worm infection.  That can be treated with Levamisole.  There are many treatment options for COPD including the use of antihistamines, steroids, clenbuterol and controlling his environment as you are doing.  For the best treatment plan for your horse, discuss these therapies with your vet.  

 

Q: I have a five year old QH mare that always stands with her right back leg cocked.  She seems to ride sound, but I am wondering if I am missing something.  My other horses rest their hind legs too, but not as much and definitely not always the same hind leg.  Do you think this is just a habit or could it indicate something else?  I have only had the mare for one month and she has done it the whole time.  The symptoms don't seem to fit spavin.

A: If there is no heat, swelling, or lameness associated with this leg, I would assume she was just resting.  Unless there is an increased pulse to the foot, I would not suspect a problem.  

Q: What is the best medicine and cure for Rain Rot?

A: There are many effective treatments for rain rot including but not limited to sunshine, antibiotics, dilute captan baths, iodine baths, and topical lime sulpher applications.  The best one is the one that works the best on your horse. 

 

Q: Has there been any new research and cure for EPM (since March 1998)?

A: There is continual ongoing  research on EPM.  So far no effective vaccine has been developed.  Several drugs and treatment protocols are being investigated and new information is acquired everyday. 

 

Q: My ten year old pony has been tentatively diagnosed with bone spavin.  Injecting his hocks with cortizone has been recommended.  Why would one not try Flex Free to regenerate the joint rather than injecting it to try to degenerate it?  Also, my daughter jumps this pony, he is only stiff, not lame.  Is it safe to jump him?

A: I would assume that your vet recommended injecting with cortizone to quiet the inflammation in the joint and to relieve pain. Oral chondroitan sulfates may be used in conjunction with the injections, but there has been no scientific proof that nutritional supplements actually work. 

 

Q: I have a 14 year old DWB mare that has had several foals with fresh and frozen semen when living in California.  After moving to Arkansas, she came into heat, ovulated well, but wouldn't conceive.  Cultures and biopsies were good, but she did seem to react in an extreme way to the heat and humidity of the new climate by developing an itchy, bumpy skin condition which worsened during the second summer.  This was treated with Azium, then Deltasone.  I have since sent her to NH, hoping the change in climate might allow her to conceive.  Do you know if she may be having an auto-immune reaction and what else can I try?

A: There are many reasons why a mare may not get in foal, especially using frozen semen. I can think of several reasons for the skin condition and few would have any impact on her being able to conceive.  I would suspect these two problems are unrelated.  I doubt she is having an auto-immune reaction, more likely an allergic reaction causing the skin condition.  Has your vet diagnosed the skin condition?  That would give you options for treatment.  Then you could focus on breeding her. 

Q: I recently had my colt vaccinated.  He was given four shots by my vet.  I know he had the rhino, tetanus, and strangles vaccinations.  He developed a lump on his lower neck about a week later.  It has now been one month and the lump is still there (about the size of a small football). The vet has him on an antibiotic (Trimeth Sulfate 960's) but I haven't seen any improvement after three days of trimeth.  Is there one vaccination that causes this reaction more than another?  Should I never have him vaccinated again?

A: Depending on which product was used, it would not be unusual to have a reaction to vaccination.  This does not mean he should not be re-vaccinated in the future.  It does mean that I would not give all 4 shots at the same time in the same muscle.  There is an intra-nasal vaccination for Strangles now that might be preferable to use on this horse.  Also you might want to consider a different Rhinopneumonitis vaccine for this horse.  It may take longer than 3 days to see improvement from an antibiotic, but hot packing and anti-inflammatories may help. 

 

Q: I have heard there is a time released progesterone implant that can be injected under the skin of the neck to keep a mare from coming into heat.  Could you please give me some information on its effectiveness and how long it lasts?

A: There are cattle implants that contain progestins.  They are not approved for use in horses although some people are using them.  How effective they are for preventing estrus in mares and how long they last is extremely variable.  They have not been scientifically studied. 

 

Q: Do you have information or results on the success of Tagamet for melanomas in horses?  Any information on melanomas in general would be helpful.

A: Please see previous discussion on this subject.  To add to that, Tagamet may be helpful when melanomas are first diagnosed and are small and treated in conjunction with other therapies (e.g. surgical excision, chemotherapy, etc.) 

 

Q: Could you give me some information on Navicular?

A: Please see previous discussions on this subject.  Navicular syndrome refers to any pain associated with the Navicular bone, ligaments, bursa, and/or soft tissue structures found within the heel area of the hoof.  Many articles and books have been devoted to this subject. 

 

Q: I live in the mountains of North Carolina, average temperature in the winter is 30°F and summer is 80°F.  I have a 14-16 year old QH/TB.  About mid-summer he grows a long, thick winter coat and in November, when cold weather arrives, he sheds out this "winter coat" and has a beautiful spring coat. During the time he has a long coat, he is very lethargic. It became so bad this past summer that I quit riding him. He acted as though he had severe arthritis; very stiff and swelling in his legs. There were times when we had to walk with him to come in to eat supper.  He had absolutely no energy.  As soon as he shed his coat, his eyes brightened, his coat shined, and he was bucking with me again.  I ruled out arthritis because living outside right now in 15° weather makes him feel great, even without any hair.  This started approximately 5 years ago and worsens every year.  Tumors of the Pituitary gland have been mentioned.  Complete blood counts, serum chemistries, thyroid tests, and fecals have all come back within normal limits.  Do you have any idea what is ailing my best friend and is there any way I can help him through his "down" time of year? 

A: An endocrine disturbance springs to mind, but this case requires more diagnostics.  I would repeat the blood work and add to it a few other tests depending on your horse (has he ever foundered?) and your area (is Lyme’s disease common there?).  Also you might try him on Thyroid medication, even though that test was normal, and see if there is any improvement.  After that there may be other medications to try.  An interesting case that a thorough work up might help elucidate the problem. 

 

Q: I am competing my 8 year TB in eventing at prelim level. I ride for about 90 minutes a day with one off and one jump lesson a week. There are no problems now, but my vet has recommended using Legend or Adequan as a preventative for lameness problems in the future. Is there any research on which one is more beneficial? He is on Grandflex now.

A: Legend is a hyaluronic acid product and Adequan is a polysulfated aminoglycan. Both are used as chondroprotective agents.  So far there is only limited research on the benefits of either product as a preventative therapy and I am unaware of any study that compares the two.  Both products seem to help horses with sub acute joint problems, but it is difficult to actually prove their worth. 

 

Q: I'm doing a research paper and am looking for information on the short term benefits and possible long term effects of using "Lasix" in the racing industry.

A: Lasix of furosemide is a diuretic used to treat “bleeders” before a race.  Lots of research has been done on this drug and Dr. C. Sweeney is one researcher who has published quite a bit on this subject. 

 

Q: What immunizations should my horse get? She is 8 years old and travels quite a bit. She barrel races and goes to a lot of shows almost every weekend. She will also be going to a Stallion Expo and I was wondering what immunizations she should have for that.

A: Yearly vaccinations for all horses should include Tetanus and Rabies.  For horses that are continually exposed to new horses (such as at horse shows, etc.) frequent (every 2-3 months) Rhino and Flu vaccinations are warranted.  One should also consider vaccinations against Strangles, EEE and WEE, and Potomac Horse Fever. 

 

Q: What causes problems with the hocks that creates a fluid build-up and/or lesions? How is cortisone used to treat this and how does it relate to synovial fluid?

A: There are many causes for hocks to develop fluid build up and/or lesions.  Conformation, diet, growth spurts, trauma, and inappropriate exercise are a few. In response to inflammation, the synovia produces excess synovial fluid. Cortisone is an anti inflammatory drug and helps to quiet the inflammation in the joint.  By reducing the synovitis there is less over production of synovial fluid.  

 

Q: My very well bred Thoroughbred mare just foaled a still-born. The placenta had red bumps on the inside, the amniotic fluid was a strange dark brown color. The foal was carried perfectly to term. The vet said something about hypotoxic. Any suggestions on what happened and why?

A: Were you there when the mare foaled?  Hypoxia can occur because the placenta detaches from the uterus prematurely.  Sometimes you see a “red bag” as the mare starts to foal, sometimes the placenta comes out with the foal.  In either case the foal will suffocate if it does not get out quickly.  Fescue is one cause of this problem.  A post mortem examination of the fetus and placenta will give you more clues as to what happened.  

 

Q: I have a 28 year old gelding that up until now has never shown any stiffness. This spring seems he seems to have discomfort when I pick up his hind feet. Should he be on some painkillers or anti-inflammatories. If so, what and how often?

A: It is not unusual for an older horse to have some arthritic changes.  If this is the reason for his unwillingness to pick up his feet, anti inflammatories may help.  Phenylbutazone is the most common drug to try.  Ask your vet if he or she thinks it would be appropriate for your horse.  

 

Q: I have a 10 year old Arabian gelding that over the past couple years has developed a skin condition. It originally started in the summer and would disappear in the winter, but the last year and a half it hasn't cleared up much at all. It starts as small bumps on his chest, shoulders, left side, and now has appeared under his belly all the way back to the sheath. They do itch, as he gets rub marks on his hair. He is on a regular worming and vaccination schedule. I've also had his thyroid tested, which was normal. His environment has not changed. Any ideas?

A: Skin conditions can be due to many things.  The first thought that comes to mind is an insect hypersensitivity.  Also parasites, bacterial infection or allergic reaction should be ruled out.  There are many therapies to try once you have determined the cause of the problem.  

 

Q: My horse rubs his tail out from seasonal allergies from spring to the end of summer. Conventional medicine hasn't worked yet, do you have any suggestions?

A: I am not sure what you have tried on your horse.  Have you dewormed him against pinworms?  Are you sure it is an allergy?  If so, desensitization or steroids might help.  

 

Q: Could a 2 year old quarterhorse gelding that is used to being inside get stiff overnight if left outside on cement? Would this be normal? Any other health considerations of putting an inside horse, outside?

A: Any horse left standing on cement overnight might be stiff in the morning.  I would not be surprised to find him “stocked up”.  Health considerations would be guided by your environment, his temperament, pasture buddies and other factors.  

 

Q: My 21 year old Quarterhorse has gone lame in his right front leg suddenly. He has been lame for about 1.5 months. He doesn't like to bear much weight on it and carries it inward making him bowlegged looking in the front. What could have caused this sudden lameness?

A: After 1.5 months of non-weight bearing lameness, my first thought would be a fracture.  Without a physical exam I could not guess what has caused your horse’s problem, but I would strongly suggest getting a vet to look at him.  

 

Q: I have an 8 year old gelding that was kicked in the stifle. The skin was not broken and he has never been lame, but has edema in the area. It has been about a week and has not receded. I started him on bute and cold therapy just one day ago. Does this fluid build up require veterinary attention if the horse is not in pain or lame?

A: For this problem to last a week, I would want a vet to examine him to determine just what has been injured and how best to treat it.  

 

Q: My horse has a skin infection on her face. The same type of infection showed up the same time last year (April). Her skin is flaky and the hair falls right out. What can I do to stop it?

A: Sometimes this can be a hormonal problem associated with changes in the mare’s cyclic behavior, or may be due to parasites or fungal or bacterial infection aggrevated by poor weather.  Also dietary insufficiencies can be associated with hair loss.  A good dermatologic shampoo will help followed by appropriate topical therapy.  

 

Q: Do you know of a good equine dentist in my area - Loveland, Ohio?

A: Ask your vet if he or she can recommend someone.  

 

Q: I have read that EquiGen, an injectible form of the hormone somatotropin, may help in the aging equine. I have also read the clinical trials conducted by BresaGen. In South Africa I am unable to locate this product or find any data beyond 1998. Do you have any info on it?

A: I do not have any information on this product, except that in the US it is not FDA approved for horses.  

 

Q: I have a 3 year old filly who has developed capped hocks, still in fluid state. The only advice I have received from my vet is to hose legs and apply leg ice. This has not been successful and the vet is reluctant to drain and use cortisone. Is there an alternative treatment?

A:  At this stage, hydrotherapy is most appropriate.  You may also try applying DMSO gel (alone, or mixed with some dexamethasone) topically, but watch for a hypersensitivity reaction.  

 

Q: What are the causes, symptoms, and treatment for Leptospirosis?

A: This is a bacterial infection caused by a spirochete.  In horses infection may show no signs until a mare aborts.  It has also been implicated in periodic opthalmia.  Treatment consists of long term antimicrobial therapy (usually with Tetracycline).  There is not an equine approved vaccine, but some people are using the cattle vaccine in areas with significant problems.  

 

Q: Lately my mare has been having difficulty rising from a lying position and favors her left rear leg. She is not always limping and seems to do better after "warming up". Could she have arthritis and what are the treatments?

A: There maybe many reasons your mare has trouble rising.  Arthritis could be one, as could myositis, a neurologic problem, or a vascular problem.  Before one could suggest a treatment plan, you need to have a physical examination done to determine what is her problem. 

 

Q: My 14 year old horse has milky pupils?  Is this a sign of anything?

A: I have never seen “milky pupils” but you may be referring to a clouding of the cornea or lens.  If you are referring to a clouding of the lens, your horse may be developing cataracts.  There is no treatment for this.  If your horse has some clouding of the cornea, it could be due to edema and is an indication of inflammation possibly because of trauma or infection.  Systemic anti-inflammatories and topical antibiotics and edema reducing ointments would be indicated.  Have your vet look at this problem soon to prevent its progress towards blindness. 

 

Q: I have a 16 year old male quarter horse who in June 1998 had a malignant melanoma removed from the sheath. In February 99, the vet removed almond sized "tumors" from the top of his penis. Recently the "tumor" on his sheath has returned, golf ball size.  Can you direct me to a source of information to help answer my many questions?

A: Try contacting Dr. Doug Thamm, a veterinarian specializing in Oncology at the University of Wisconsin.  Sorry I do not have any phone numbers or address.  

 

Q: Can you provide information on the physiological changes that would take place in the circulatory and respiratory systems in a normal, fit thoroughbred that suffered marked blood loss through a wound?

A: What do you mean by “marked blood loss”?  For physiologic changes to occur, the horse would have to be dehydrated and heading towards shock.  The effects on the respiratory system would be minimal, but there could be substantial temporary changes in the circulatory system.  Unless a major artery was involved in the wound, it is unlikely that there would be enough blood loss to cause physiologic changes.  

 

Q: What is contracted tendons and what is the remedy? What are the chances of a full recovery in the case of a foal?

A: Contracted tendons is the term used to describe flexure deformities in a newborn.  Treatment depends on location and severity of the problem.  The purpose of treatment consists of forcing the limb into extension and getting the muscles to relax.  This can be done medically and/or with splinting.  Recovery is usually pretty good with aggressive therapy.  

 

Q: I have a 26 year old gelding who seems to be troubled mostly in the spring and fall with an itchy sheath. This just started about 2 years ago. I've cleaned the sheath using KY jelly and he is still uncomfortable. I don't see any infection.  Any suggestions?

A:  I do not know what you mean by itchy sheath.  Have your vet examine the area thoroughly to rule out any sign of infection, tumors, Habronemiasis, or urinary problem.  

 

Q: I have an 8 month old colt, black, purebred Arabian. He's in good health (or at least looks it), is on a good feed and worming program, but he chews the manes and tails of my other horses; one in particular, who doesn't seem to mind. What causes this and how do I stop him from doing this?

A: This is a vice.  I do not think there is any particular cause, other than boredom and because he can.  One way to try to stop him is to put red pepper in the manes and tails of your other horses.  

 

Q: A stud I'm looking to breed to has a turned out foot, rear right. Is this generally a birth defect or a genetic defect? Can it be passed down to his colts?

A: Conformational traits are inherited.  The degree to which a fault is expressed depends on a number of factors, including luck.  That’s why most breeders try to “breed the best to the best and hope for the best.”  

 

Q: I own a 6 year old paint. He is about 15 H and, in general, a healthy horse. I just recently changed the barn at which I board him because he did not get enough turn out time. He now goes outside every day (weather permitting) for about 7-8 hours. I have seen a lot of changes in him, i.e., much better behaved and calm, but he always seems to have some type of lameness.  When we bought him the vet that did the pre-purchase vetting said the only problem was a slight popping in the back hocks. They never seem to bother him when we ride and jump, but he never just stands. He always is favoring one of them when we are grooming him. He recently pulled a muscle in the front right armpit area and I didn't ride him for two weeks. I made sure he got exercise and I lunged him for short periods. He went outside for half days after a week of rest. It still seems to bother him so I haven't jumped or rode him very hard. With show season coming up and all his injuries, should he go outside less? Is there some other solution to all his leg lameness?

A: Without knowing the exact nature of your horse's lameness problems, it is hard to advise whether he needs more or less turn out time.  However I would make sure he is not being injured by other horses when he is turned out, or if he is out by himself, that he is not constantly running the fence.  Try to identify the exact nature of his lameness and then treat accordingly.  

 

Q: I have an 8 1/2 month old Cleveland Bay/Thoroughbred filly. Her one rear fetlock is upright and sometimes bends forward when she stands. It seems fine when she walks and runs. I noticed it is swollen in the morning when she is in, but fine after a day of being outside. I think this is because of the pressure of it being so upright. This filly had a problem with too much protein and only gets a handful of 12% sweetfeed (Rider by BlueSeal) with good hay and pasture two times a day. She is fine on this diet and looks incredibly healthy. Is there something I should be doing about this hind leg?

A: First I would pay very close attention to her feet and have a good farrier attend to her, he may be able to help.  Then I would make sure that her stall is well bedded, this may help prevent some of the stocking up you see.  If it is a conformational cause, she may improve as she grows, but if she gets worse, your vet may be able to advise about surgical intervention.  

 

Q: I have an 11 year old 17 H gray, large built, Thoroughbred. He has been losing weight since September 1989. In December 1989, his blood glucose tolerance levels were very flattened (fasting: 6.40 m.vol/1,  1 hr. 6.51,  2 hr. 8.73,  3 hr. 7.39,  4 hr. 6.76). They prescribed 2 handfuls of Lucerne, 3 times a day and 10 ml of Ration Plus, I would presume for the sugar content. His kidney and liver values were within normal range. He consumes 3/4 bale of eragrostis/teff a day as we have lousy paddocks. He has 7.5kg of meal and cubes per day and 500 grams of soya. (His diet was prescribed by an Equine Nutritionist.) I use biotin, diamond v (multivit), electrolytes, & seaweed, which I spread out between his 3 feeds. He goes through a salt-lick in about 9 days and consumes 3 buckets of H2O during the day and 2 at night. He sweats a lot and is generally hot after his evening meal and is always washed down afterwards. He has had his teeth attended to and is regularly dewormed. He was also tested for parasites. His feet have been deteriorating, could this be viral? (I grease them prior to washing him down.) His hocks are often swollen (so is his face) and the local vet put him on an anabolic steroid for the inflammation and to help with food digestion and build muscle. He had a two week course of two oral shots a week. I have since used homeopathic pills to detox him and his legs are still swelling. The vet has now prescribed Hexamine and as soon as I stop this, his legs swell again.  Any suggestions?

A: Based on your horse’s diet, I presume you may be from Australia?  Have you done any blood work (CBC and Chemistry) on your horse to try to identify if there is an infectious or systemic reason for his weight loss?  Also what are the Selenium levels in your area?  A SE deficiency may be the cause of some of his problems, but there may be other things going on as well.  It would be difficult to guess what is going on here.  

 

Q: I have a registered Quarter Horse gelding. He was born in 1996 and his pasterns seemed fine then, but they have gradually started sagging, almost to the ground on his hind legs. When he is running, they don't sag, but when he is walking around grazing, they sag with each step. It is really bad when he is just standing around. What could have caused this and is there anything I can do to make it better?  Is there a possibility of lameness in the future? Are there exercises to help strengthen and straighten his pasterns? I was told to used Sports Medicine II Boots on his hind legs when I work him. Will this help? Before I bought him, he was turned out in a pen that was almost all deep mud. Could this have caused the problem?

A: This condition is often seen in Paso Finos and older broodmares.  It would be unusual in a 3 year old unless he has ruptured some ligaments, and then I would expect him to be lame.  I would have your vet examine him to rule out a ligament injury and I would see if a good farrier can help him with special shoeing.  

 

Q: Do you think an annual coggins test is a worthwhile test?

A: Yes  

 

Q: From reading your bio, I suspect that you are practicing (or familiar) with my geographical area. I live in Paint Lick, Kentucky and have a 10 month old foal that has been showing strange signs of behavior for the last week. I have had my vet here and blood tests are in process and antibiotics are being given. This was a healthy foal that all of a sudden went almost completely off feed and water and became dull, docile, and lethargic. My vet has treated two other horses which have acted similar, only to die soon after. These horses were sent to UK for autopsies and were diagnosed with "Colitis X". Are you aware of any research, treatment, preventative measures, or vaccines on this disease?

A: Colitis X is a stress reaction of the horse’s digestive system to endotoxins.  It is a sudden, severe diarrhea caused by Salmonella, Clostridia, or an unknown toxin.  This does not sound like your foal’s problem.  Hopefully the blood work will give you more information as to your horse’s problem, but I would be considering a parasitic or infectious problem, or a gastric ulcer.  There is lots of research on Colitis X.  Treatment consists of continuous fluid therapy, antibiotics, antipyretics, and supportive care.  There are oral anti-endotoxin products for use in newborn foals but their efficacy is questionable.  

 

Q: I have a 10 month old colt with a back injury. He has been to 3 vets and was given an anti-inflammatory medicine on 3/4/99.  He still isn't able to get up.  Is there anything I can try?

A: Without knowing the exact nature of your horse’s problem, it would be ridiculous to try to advise therapy.  However, any horse that has been down for 3 months must have a severe problem.  Will he tolerate a sling?  This may not treat the back problem, but may help with developing complications.  

 

Q: I have a 13 month old gelding who has warts on his lips, chin, nose, and eyelids. I had a vet remove some of the warts two weeks ago. Now, there seem to be more. Is there anything I can buy on the market to remove the warts? I'm showing halter in May and won't be able to if the warts aren't gone.

A: Warts are caused by a virus.  Carefully pulling them off may stimulate an immune reaction causing the rest of them to die, but by now they should be gone anyway.  

 

Q: My vet recently added Quest to our worming schedule and my 13 year old TWH gelding seemed to have a bout of bad diarrhea after worming. He weighs about 1200 lbs. and is never sick, so I am a bit concerned. Has this product been out a sufficient length of time to know the problems?

A: While this is a good anthelminic, it must be dosed properly and there have been some reports of side effects.  The diarrhea could have been a reaction to the parasites dying.  

 

Q: I have a 9 year old, white, Leopard Appaloosa that I just bought that has cataracts. He seems to see perfectly now, but seems sensitive to light. Is there any treatment and, if so, how successful is it?

A: There is no treatment for cataracts except for removing the lens.  This has not been a particularly successful procedure so discuss it thoroughly with an equine ophthalmologist and surgeon before rushing to have it done.  

 

Q: I need information on cures, management, concerns, and use of a 14 year old King bred gelding with heaves.

A: Heaves is also known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.  There is lots of good information available on the disease.  But basically, it is an allergic reaction to dust or pollens or mold. There is no cure, but symptoms can improve with appropriate management.  Horses usually do better outdoors, with hay that has been thoroughly soaked, and may need to be treated with antihistamines and steroids.  

 

Q: My horse is an 18 year old Hanoverian that was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor about 5 years ago. He has the long hair growth, etc. This year, he developed laminitis, but has never been lame before. Can this be attributed to the tumor and can anything be done? He is on thyroid medication. Where can I get more information on endocrine diseases?

A: It is not uncommon for horses (and ponies) with pituitary tumors to develop laminitis.  Besides thyroid medication, you may want to discuss the use of Cyproheptadine or Pergolide with your veterinarian.  Many vet schools have medicine clinicians working on endocrine diseases that may be willing to talk with you.  

 

Q: My lovely Thoroughbred mare has produced 3 foals for me, out of Paint stallions, and the three and four year olds have had numerous coordination problems and injuries or unsoundness. Who can I contact regarding neurological/rapid growth problems?

A: There are researchers at Ohio State University Veterinary School (Dr. Steve Reed and associates) and at the University of Pa. Veterinary School (Dr. Jill Beech and Dr. W. Donawick) that may be able to help you.  

 

Q: Prospective horse (free) has fallen back leg fetlocks and has only been used for breeding for 11 years. Can corrective shoeing or back leg protection help her on trail riding or should I pass on the horse and leave her for breeding only?

A: These problems may be helped with corrective shoeing depending on the severity of the problem, but I would be inclined to pass on this horse as this unsoundness tends to get worse with use and age.  

 

Q: I have an anglo mare that "ties-up" very severely even after light exercise. I have her on a selenium supplement and bland diet, but it still happens. Any suggestions?

A: Discuss with your veterinarian your conditioning program and diet and your mare’s temperament.  Blood tests and a muscle biopsy may be indicated to rule out different types of myopathies which would respond to different therapies.  

 

Q: Are there any special health concerns to be aware of when horses and cattle are pastured together?

A: One should be concerned with cross infection of parasites, infectious diseases such as Leptospirosis, and some additives to cattle feed and salt blocks that are poisonous to horses. However, if the cattle are healthy and well cared for, there is not usually a problem.  

 

Q: My 4 year old gelding is diagnosed with an upper fixation of the patella. His hind leg is stiff at the stifle joint and he has trouble with a smooth lift, he must drag the toe forward and then 'pop' it into place. The vet recommended exercise on hills. He was not broke to ride at the time of the diagnosis and we have little to no hills, therefore, no exercise program was started. A year has gone by with little or no change to his leg. Have I encouraged the leg to become worse or can I start an exercise program now with no ill side effects? Should he be evaluated again?

A: Since nothing has been done to your horse, I presume he still has the problem and would wait to reevaluate him until after you have been working with him for a while.  Time can be a great healer and you certainly have not made things worse unless he was stall confined the entire year.  I would start a conditioning program now and since you do not have any hills, I would try incorporating caveletti work which will also strengthen his hind muscles.  

 

Q: Could you please provide me with some information on pedal osteitis? I have a 16 year old Anglo Arab gelding who has just been diagnosed as having 'mild pedal osteitis'. I especially would like to know if continuing to ride him (pleasure riding) would have any long term detrimental effects with this condition. Would riding him make the condition advance or is it self limiting?

A: This is inflammation of the coffin bone, usually diagnosed by reaction to hoof testers and seeing a demineralization of the tip of the coffin bone on a radiograph.  It is not an uncommon aging change and while it is not self limiting, proper hoof care and shoeing, perhaps the judicial use of pads, can make him more comfortable and prolong his use as a pleasure horse.  

 

Q: I own a 6 year old Connemara/Morgan cross mare. We are doing dressage. When she is on the bit and working properly through the back, she makes a roaring type noise in sync with her breathing. This does not appear when we are "off" the bit, even at a canter or a gallop. Does this indicate an impediment somewhere to her breathing? Could it be brought on by muscle tension somewhere when on the bit?

A: This noise should be investigated with an endoscope to determine if the horse is a true “roarer” or if there is another cause for the noise you are hearing.  Certainly when a horse is “on the bit” the layrnx is in a different position than when at rest, and nerves and muscles may cause an impediment to the airway.  A proper diagnosis is needed to determine how significant the noise is.  

 

Q: What are the chances for a 15 month old colt to recover from EDM? Could this colt ever be ridden?

A: This is a diffuse, degenerative, progressive disease of the spinal cord and brain stem of unknown origin affecting young horses and zebras.  Since it usually affects horses before 6 months and is progressive, I am surprised your colt is still alive and ok.  Perhaps the diagnosis is wrong.  

 

Q: My horse became tangled in a rope and received a rope burn on the back side of his hind foot just above his hoof. We had a vet give him an injection of tetnus antitoxon and are applying trypzime-v spray to the area. Is there anything else I can do for him? How long should I expect a wound such as this to heal?

A: Healing of this problem depends on the severity of the burn; how deep, what tissues were involved, and keeping it from getting infected.  It might require turbulation with warm water and epsom salts, antibiotics topically and systemically, bandaging or not, depending on the healing.  It will take a while.  

 

Q: Would you please give information about a disease called "Anthrax"?

A: This is a disease caused by a bacteria (bacillus anthracis) that causes severe colic and edema of the head, neck, and abdomen.  It is treated with appropriate antibiotic therapy and supportive care.  It is a zoonosis and should be reported to the state veterinarian.  

 

Q: What are the implications for an 8 year old quarter horse who has a muscle/nerve condition called "shivers"?

A: This is usually seen in large draft type horses and the cause and treatment is unknown, but it does not usually progress or cause a problem.  There are some medications that are being tried, but normal work is not usually a problem.  

 

Q: Can you tell me a fast and effective treatment for existing hock sores and how to prevent them? My horse is turned out on grass and has a lot of bedding in his stall.

A: There are no “fast” treatments for this problem because once they get started, they tend to be continually traumatized making healing difficult.  The stall must be well bedded and you might try a topical antibiotic cream such as Silvidene cream.  

 

Q: After being exercised my Paint mare (presently in heat) stands with her back legs stretched out.  Does she do this because her back legs are too long and is this serious or painful for the horse?

A: This is a characteristic pose for a mare in heat and does not indicate pain.  Her legs are not too long, this is normal behavior along with urinating.  

 

Q: I have a 3 year old TB filly that I race. She has a chronic respiratory infection. She has had all antibiotics, including ampicillin (3 times), but it reoccurs in about 10 days. She is on equistern once every 2 weeks. The whole barn has been washed with bleach and no other horse has this problem. What formula can you recommend for making an effective nebulizing medication?

A: I would suggest a tracheal wash and gutteral pouch scoping for bacterial cultures and sensitivities to determine what is causing the infections.  Then appropriate antibiotic therapy can be instituted.  Nebulization may help using a combination of appropriate antibiotics, steroids, and bronchodilators, but watch for withdrawal times.  

 

Q: My 11 year old AQHA gelding was diagnosed with nervascular disease.  What is it? I was told to shoe him differently and to think about expensive medicine or a 50-50 surgery. Is he ever going to be show quality or is he out to pasture forever?

A: I assume you mean Navicular disease.  This problem has been addressed previously.  There are many treatment options for this problem starting with corrective shoeing and the judicial use of anti-inflammatories.  His response to treatment will determine what steps to take and if he can be shown.  

 

Q: What are the options of treatment for a wheezing horse?

A: There are several, starting with changing his environment, wetting his hay, changing his feed (try Respond), and use of medications (steroids) when the condition is exacerbated.  Discuss a plan with your vet.  

 

Q: Our gelding tripped while being ridden and is now lame in his left hind and I hear a snapping noise as he brings the leg forward. I can't detect any heat or swelling in the leg, but am concerned about his hip area or his hock. Any suggestions?

A: He needs a physical exam to discover the source of his pain.  That may then require further diagnostics to determine the extent of his injury and how to treat it.  

 

Q: A pre-purchase exam on a 13 year old Appendix mare revealed light epistaxis from left nostril after minimal lunging. Endoscopic exam gave diagnosis of a fungal plaque located in left nasal cavity. Mare is in good condition, a bit on the heavy side, 15.2H. Previous owners stated this happened once last year. Vaccinations and worming up to date. I am planning on using the horse in western pleasure competition, pleasure riding, and breeding. Could you give more information on this problem?

A: This could be a potentially serious problem, depending on the exact location of the plaque.  If it is in the guttural pouch, it could lead to death with erosion of the vessel wall.  Fungal problems can be difficult to treat, although there are medications to try.  I would be reluctant to purchase this horse. 

 

Q: Is it necessary to keep a newborn foal and its dam off fescue pasture? Will fescue interfere with growth and development of the newborn? If so, what age is it safe to put the young horse on fescue pasture?

A: The danger of fescue is to late pregnant mares as it can cause prolonged gestation, stillborn births, premature placental separation, and lack of milk production.  After a foal is born, it is ok to let the mare and foal graze on this type of pasture as long as the mare is making plenty of milk.  A young foal gets most of its nutrition from its mother, so as long as she is producing enough milk for the foal, the fescue will not be a problem for the foal. 

 

Q: What is suspensory desmitis? Could you please explain what happens to the cells/fibers on a physiological level? Is this usually trauma induced, or does conformation predispose a horse to develop this? Is the condition progressive? Is there an effective treatment?

A: This is inflammation of the suspensory ligament.  “Back at the knee” or “tied in” conformation may predispose a horse to having suspensory problems.  However it is usually trauma induced but may occur if a horse is not fit enough to perform the work asked of him.  It will progress if the horse is not rested and treated.  However, many horses recover fully with proper care.  There are many approaches to treatment involving rest, ice, use of topical hydrotherapy,  anti-inflammatories, and other medications and modalities to decrease the inflammation.  On a physiological level, there is cellular swelling, fiber disruption, release of cytokines, prostaglandins, and other cellular cascades involved in the inflammatory response. 

 

Q: What does it mean when a horse has "slipped his hocks" or "slipped his Achilles tendons"? What is the prognosis for a horse with this type of injury?

A: I am not sure what you mean by “slipped”.  However, rupture of the achilles tendon, or gastrocnemius tendon, is very serious and the prognosis is poor. 

 

Q: We have a 17 year old gelding with the "heaves". We are getting minimal results from ventipulmin and dexaject. Any suggestions? He is a pasture horse, but does have access to round bales of hay.

A: This is usually an allergic condition and it is important to try to figure out what is triggering his attacks.  Changing his environment may help, along with the use of antihistamines.  Some people have had luck with desensitization, but not consistently. 

 

Q: My 10 year old Peruvian Paso is suffering with suspensory injury in both hind legs. University Davis ultra sounded and recommended extended shoes, bute and rest, but he is not improving. He is in pain, moves from one hind to the other and puts the toe down first. Do you have any suggestions to improve his condition?

A: This is not an uncommon problem with this breed.  UCDavis has recommended the most current treatment options, have you discussed with them your horse’s condition since implementing their recommendations? They may have more suggestions or recommend a different NSAID such as Banamine, to make him more comfortable. 

  

Q: My 18 year old Quarter Horse has just been diagnosed with Degenerative Joint Disease. My vet has him on a course of Adequan, 1 shot every 4 days and then once a month. She says I should continue doing this for the rest of his life. Is there anything else I could do for him? How much riding can I do when the lameness goes away in a few weeks?

A: Probably the most helpful thing you can do would be to pay close attention to his foot care, fitness, and weight management.  Anti inflammatories may be helpful.  He will tell you how much riding he can handle. 

 

Q: What would be a safe dose of Black Cohosh herbal for my mare to minimize her nasty attitude during her heat cycle?

A: I am unfamiliar with the use of this herb. 

  

Q: My 2 year old filly eats with her head tilted to the right and her neck stretched out. Her teeth have been floated twice, but has not corrected the way she eats. Her mane is getting very thin. There are no ear problems that I am aware of. Any suggestions?

A: Two things come to mind.  I would have her examined for ticks, and I would have a neck and skull x-ray evaluation to rule out any bony lesion or temporal mandibular joint problem. 

  

Q: What symptoms does the horse exhibit if he is experiencing kidney stones or urinary tract problems?

A: There are very few symptoms associated with Kidney stones, until they are quite large.  Then one may see incontinence, straining to urinate, and painful episodes.  If you suspect a problem, bloodwork and ultrasound evaluation may be helpful. 

  

Q: What is the prognosis for a newborn filly that is diagnosed with an angular limb deformity (right hind leg in the fetlock joint)? The leg is currently splinted and I have been informed that there is no chance for performance without major surgery which is out of the question. What can my expectations be for her ability to be used as a broodmare? Do you have any information regarding research on the cause of this condition?

A: Depending on the location and severity of the deformity, prognosis is usually very good.  Time often corrects most deformities, and splinting, corrective trimming, and occasionally a periosteal elevation can help the most severe.  I would get another opinion as most can perform well as they outgrow this condition.  There is a lot of research on treatment options for this condition and a little on the cause of it. 

  

Q: My 11 year old Thoroughbred mare was raced 26 times. I am now showing her dressage and am careful to make each show a positive experience for her. She has developed frequent, loose stools starting as early as preparing to load to go to a show and continuing through the show. When we get home, her movements are back to normal. Is it possible she could have developed a nervous stomach? Should I try probios or ignore it?

A: It is not uncommon for a horse to have loose stools when encountering a new or strange situation.  She may become nervous at the site of the trailer and remember the stress of racing.  Time and repetition of the trips will help her overcome the worry.  Probios may help, but would not be necessary unless the diarrhea does not resolve. 

  

Q: My horse has white crusty bumps in both ears, making it hard to bridle. How can I get rid of these bumps?

A: This may be aural plaques or warts or sarcoids.  Have your veterinarian examine them to prescribe the proper treatment, as each situation would require a different therapy. 

  

Q: I would like information on what HYPP is and if there are many kinds of it? What should I feed my older horse who has this?

A: This is an inheritable metabolic condition affecting muscular activity.  There are many articles written about it in such magazines as the Horse, Equus, etc. as well as previous answers at this column.  A low carbohydrate, high fat diet seems to help these horses.  Discuss your horse’s diet with your veterinarian or equine nutritionist. 

  

Q: Is there a safe, special paint that can be used on fencing to discourage horses from cribbing and wind sucking?

A: If there was an effective, safe paint for this problem, the patent owner would be a millionaire.  There are some products designed to help prevent wood chewing that might be helpful in a limited area. 

  

Q: Can you recommend where I might obtain a horse map - something that shows and names all the exterior body parts of the horse?

A: Most general books on horse care have a chapter with illustrations on conformation and identification of the parts of the horse. 

  

Q: I have been told that my horse has a stifle in both legs from hard ranch riding and that I should put whit linament oil on it to ease it. A trainer looked at him and said that it does not seem to be bad. What recommendation of treatment do you give for this condition?

A: All horses have a stifle in their hind leg.  It is the knee joint.  Whether there is a problem with this joint and how to treat it would require a veterinary examination. 

 

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