Any time you see your horse can’t do something it normally does with ease it’s time to call the veterinarian. Here’s what it could mean if your horse can’t...
Back Up
What does it mean when your horse can not back up? Some horses may be resistant to backing up, or back up crookedly. These problems can be solved with training, adjusting the saddle to fit better and sometimes, chiropractic treatment. But very occasionally, a horse that normally will back up, suddenly can’t back up at all. It may also have problems moving sideways. What is going on? There is a good chance horse that can not back up may have neurological problems. And this symptom may be caused by a disease like West Nile Virus, tetanus or Equine Protozoal Encephalomyelitis.
Poop
An average-sized horse poops about eight times a day. And while pooping less is easier on the clean-up crew, it really isn’t a good thing. It can be a sign of twisted or telescoped intestine, blockage or impaction colic. And all are signs that you need to call a veterinarian.
Urinate
A gelding that can’t urinate may need its sheath cleaned. Any horse can have a urinary tract infection or some form of cystitis. Cancer and other growths can obstruct the urinary tract. It’s rare, but patent urachus can cause a young foal to leak urine from its umbilicus.
Eat
Why does your horse refuse to eat? It may have something lodged in its throat, such as a wad of food or foreign object. It may have an infection in its mouth, broken or sensitive teeth or a bruised or damaged jaw from a kick. It may have a swelling caused by a disease like strangles that makes it hard to swallow. Impaired swallow reflex can also be caused by neurological problems.
Breathe
If your horse can’t breathe there’s an obstruction or inflammation in the airways. Allergies, infections caused by foreign objects, congestion from an illness such as flu or strangles, or infections from dental or sinus problems can cause breathing problems. Broken sinus bones can also cause problems.
Stand Up
Horses can’t lie down for long periods of time. So if your horse can’t get up due to becoming cast, injury or illness, you need to call your veterinarian.
Walk
A horse that won’t walk has an injury or infection causing pain. It may be suffering from hoof abscesses, a strain or a broken bone, laminitis, or a disease like WNV or EPM may be causing stiffness and incoordination. Horses can also sustain injuries to their spine that make it difficult to walk. If your horse doesn’t want to walk, a vet needs to check it out.
Sweat
If your horse won’t sweat it probably has anhidrosis, or non-sweating disease. It’s sweat gland malfunction, and it can overheat very quickly in warm weather. Anhidrosis can’t be cured, but it can be treated and controlled.
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