June 13, 2023

Common Health Problems in Horses

ARTHRITIS

Arthritis afflicts horses as they age similarly to humans. This degenerative joint disease causes inflammation of the joint, which then causes pain in horses and makes it hard for them to move. This progressive horse disease usually affects older horses but can crop up in younger ones as well. While there is no cure, there are many treatments you can invest in for your horse. Regular exercise will help keep your horse at a healthy weight, and oral supplements can also help.

COLIC

Colic is a severe horse condition that can strike at any time. Colic is a severe pain in the horse's stomach that can be caused by various things, such as a horse eating food too quickly or drinking too much cold water. Parasites and stress can cause colic, too. If you suspect your horse has colic, it's imperative to seek medical treatment as soon as possible as colic can be fatal to your horse. Call our equine clinic with questions.

LAMINITIS

Laminitis is a condition that strikes a horse's hooves, which can cause many problems since horses stand most of the time.

It is an inflammation around the horse's hoof that is exceedingly painful and can cause lameness. Common causes include overeating grain or trauma to the foot. However, it can be treated with proper veterinary care that involves corrective shoeing and a change in diet.

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