By James Moore, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, and Jarred Williams, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS-LA, ACVECCEndotoxemia, a life-threatening condition, can render horses lethargic and dull. | Getty imagesIts a normal day. You wake up, feed the horses, go to work, come home, head to the barn. Your 16-year-old gelding stands in the pasture, head down, lethargic and dull. He didnt finish his breakfast and has no interest in dinner. You call your veterinarian arrives, she arrives, examines the gelding, and tells you he might have colitis and appears toxic. What does this mean, where did it start?Understanding Endotoxemia Endotoxemia is a complication that occurs when Gram-negative bacteria or parts of their walls access blood, such as in horses diagnosed with colitis, pneumonia/pleuropneumonia, neonatal sepsis, or endometritis.Gram-negative bacteria have small structures in their cell walls called lipopolysaccharides or endotoxin. Intestinal ischemia (loss of blood supply) and inflammatory conditions such as colitis can compromise the inner lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (the mucosal barrier), allowing endotoxin to enter the bloodstream. Though the horse is technically endotoxemic, problems dont arise until the immune system recognizes the breach. A protein the liver synthesizescalled lipopolysaccharide-binding proteinhas a strong affinity for endotoxin and a receptor on surfaces of specific immune cells.When this protein encounters endotoxin, it handcuffs itself to the culprit and brings it to the immune cells, which interpret this as the worst news. These cells quickly produce a variety of pro-inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor, prostaglandins, interleukins, and tissue factor, that result in many of the clinical signs and responses associated with endotoxemia.Clinical Signs and Findings Endotoxemia causes a wide array of clinical signs:Poor tissue perfusion, signs of which include discolored oral mucous membranes, prolonged capillary refill time (how long it takes for color to return after pressing/releasing a finger on the horses gums), and cool extremities (i.e., ears, limbs).Fever, which is a common indicator of an immune response.Signs associated with abdominal pain caused by the underlying intestinal problem. In many cases reduced intestinal motility results in a decrease in or absence of intestinal sounds.Increased heart and respiratory rates as the body tries to cope.Lethargy and depression as poor perfusion and shock set in.Bloodwork changes, such as hematocrit (red blood cell concentration) increases; plasma protein concentration increases/decreases, abrupt decreases in white blood cells, notably neutrophils, and degenerative or toxic changes to their appearance.While not a sign of endotoxemia, laminitis, a painful inflammatory condition affecting the hooves, can occur due to decreased blood flow to the hooves.Endotoxemia can rapidly lead to shock and cardiovascular collapse and, insidiously, laminitis. Given these severe outcomes, early intervention is paramount. If you suspect your horse exhibits any of the signs listed, consult a veterinarian immediately. Timely diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the horses chances of recovery.Infographic: Understanding EndotoxemiaTreatment for EndotoxemiaVets can treat endotoxemia by decreasing the amount of circulating endotoxin lipopolysaccharide-binding protein can bind to; immune cell ability to mount an inflammatory response; and immune cell signals to tissues responsible for clinical signs. Therapies include:Polymixin B: Vets can administer this antibiotic in small doses that dont kill bacteria. It binds directly to lipopolysaccharide, rendering it unable to be bound by lipopolysaccharide-binding protein.Flunixin meglumine (Banamine): This non-steroidal anti-inflammatory decreases prostaglandin production and other aspects of the inflammatory response.Antibiotic therapy: This is an important part of treating known or suspected infection, such as in neonates with sepsis or adult horses with pleuropneumonia. Using antibiotics in adults with GI inflammation can be controversial because the drugs adversely affect the health of other microorganisms living in the intestines. Certain antibiotics can damage the intestinal mucosa, leading to colitis and endotoxemia.Cryotherapy: While cooling the hooves with ice water isnt a direct therapy against endotoxin, it can decrease metabolism of the cells in the hoof, allowing them to better tolerate changes in blood flow and, optimally, prevent laminitis.Endotoxemia is a critical condition that demands vigilance and awareness. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and the significance of early intervention can make all the difference in safeguarding equine health and well-being.

The Underwriting Exchange Irish Senior Show Jumping team kick off their 2025 Nations Cup season in Sharjah on February 2nd, and will see the return of Trevor Breen to international team action for the first time since his career-threatening injury last May. Breen underwent emergency surgery and was placed in an induced coma after suffering three fractures to his neck and spine following a fall from Highland President during the Grand Prix of Hamburg, and the combination will form part of the quartet for the four-star event. Horse Sport Ireland Show Jumping High Performance Director Michael Blake has chosen a typically strong quartet to open the campaign as they bid to improve on last years fifth-place finish in the United Arab Emirates. Joining Breen and Highland President will be his brother Shane with Z7 Oilina, Mikey Pender with HHS Calais (ISH) and David Simpson with Mambo NR 5 B. Blake []

Section Key Points Purpose of Compression Bandages Support lymphatic flow and blood circulation Reduce post-operative swelling Provide joint support Wound protection Application Guidelines Start below the affected area Use a figure 8 pattern for hocks Apply uniform tension Overlap layers by 50% Specific Layers of the Bandage Cotton layer Brown gauze layer Vetwrap layer Common Scenarios for Bandage Use Post-operative care Tendon disorders or injuries Wound and scar treatment Additional Recovery Techniques Physiotherapy and rehabilitation Anesthesia recovery Conclusion Compression bandages are essential for recovery and should be used in conjunction with a veterinarian's guidance. Effective Use of Compression Bandages for Equine Recovery: A Guide to Supporting Your Horse After SurgeryRecovery after your horse undergoes surgery is a pivotal time, often dictating the success of the procedure itself. One essential component of the recovery toolbox is the compression bandage. Designed to support your horses recuperation, these bandages help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and offer much-needed stability to joints. This guide will equip you with knowledge about effectively using compression bandages to expedite your horse's healing process post-surgery.Understanding the Purpose of Compression BandagesCompression bandages are available for more than just wrapping; they are integral to the recovery process by serving multiple roles: Supporting Lymphatic Flow and Blood Circulation: These bandages work by redirecting accumulated lymphatic fluid back to the lymph nodes, crucial for the horses health and prevention of complications from poor lymphatic flow [source]. Reducing Post-Operative Swelling: Following surgery, swelling is common. Using compression bandages, you can protect the joints and minimize post-op edema [source]. Providing Joint Support: Essential for horses recovering from injury or surgery on joints, these bandages stabilize and limit joint motion [source]. Wound Protection: They are effective for safeguarding wound dressings, preventing contamination, and assisting in healing [source].How to Apply Compression BandagesTo maximize benefits and minimize discomfort, correct bandage application is vital.General Application Guidelines Start Below the Affected Area: Begin wrapping about 1 inch below the knee or hock, covering the coronary band and heels to prevent the bandage from slipping and ensuring continuous compression. Use a Figure 8 Pattern: For hocks, a figure 8 wrapping pattern distributes pressure evenly, alleviating any lumps or ridges. Apply Uniform Tension: Maintain even tension to avoid over-tightening, which can obstruct circulation. Overlap Layers: Each layer should overlap the previous one by 50% to provide consistent pressure.Specific Layers of the Bandage Cotton Layer: Initiate with a cotton layer that snugly conforms to the limb, fully covering the coronary band and heels. Brown Gauze Layer: Apply brown gauze firmly over the cotton, ensuring compression to control swelling. Vetwrap Layer: Use Vetwrap as a cohesive top layer, removing half the stretch for optimal elasticity.Common Scenarios for Using Compression BandagesPost-Operative CareThe role of compression bandages is indispensable post-surgery, tackling swelling and providing enhanced joint support. Especially vital for surgeries involving joints, these bandages facilitate smoother transitions back to activity.Tendon Disorders or InjuriesRecovery from tendon rupture or injury can be bolstered using compression bandages, which reduce swelling and support the affected fibers.Wound and Scar TreatmentIn wound care, compression bandages work alongside wound dressings, particularly those with antibacterial features, aiding in infection prevention and accelerated healing.Additional Recovery TechniquesWhile compression bandages are vital, they are often part of a broader recovery strategy.Physiotherapy and RehabilitationComplementing bandage use, physiotherapy restores limb mobility, reduces inflammation, and boosts strength. Laser and shockwave therapies are additional modalities available for aiding recovery.Anesthesia RecoveryVarious techniques like rope recovery or sling recovery assist with anesthesia recovery, requiring expertise and equipment to ensure safe post-anesthesia waking.ConclusionCompression bandages are a valuable asset in your horse's recovery journey post-surgery. With a clear understanding of their function, correct application techniques, and how they tie into overall recovery plans, youre poised to enhance your horses comfort and speed up their healing process. Always consult your veterinarian to tailor the best approach for your horse's unique recovery needs.Explore More from Just Horse RidersFor more equestrian supplies, explore our range of Jodhpurs, Boots, Gloves, Socks, and more. Elevate your horse care with Horse Treats and Supplements.```html```

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All horses are unique, and it is perfectly appropriate for them to have different feeding programs throughout the year. | iStockQ: This summer I showed my horse in the jumpers, and he was working six days a week. However, this winter, he will have a few months of little to no work. Should I make changes to his diet to support this transition and ensure he maintains a healthy weight?A: Im glad your horse is getting some well-earned time off. It is beneficial both mentally and physically for them to get some break in intensity of work, even with todays year-round opportunities to compete. To answer your question, yes (probably).Consider the Data When Making Horse Diet ChangesA 500 kilogram horse in heavy work needs to consume 26,600 kilocalories per day. This drops to only 16,700 kilocalories per day when at maintenance (not in work). That is a large decrease and could account for his entire daily grain intake, or more. (For example, the difference here would be equivalent to about 6.5 pounds of an average-calorie performance feed). However, unless you have consulted the NRCs 2007 Nutrient Requirements of Horses, you will have to make some judgments based on what you know about his typical metabolism and history of weight (and possibly behavior) fluctuations during past workload lulls.Is he a hard keeper that you had to fight to put precious weight on, or is he an easy keeper that will quickly pack on the vacation pounds? A simple approach to start might be to simply cut the number of calories coming from feed (concentrate) in half while keeping forage calories consistent and observing his body condition over time. You can accomplish this by reducing the feed quantity, switching to a feed with a lower calorie density, or even moving to a ration balancer. A ration balancer will help ensure your horse receives the right balance of nutrients while decreasing calories. In the case of the very easy keeper, you might need to evaluate forage calories as well and consider carefully decreasing the amount or richness of forage you pair with the ration balancer.Diet Changes for Hard-Keeping Horses Possible exceptions to all of this would be in the case of a known hard-keeper, one that is going to live outside in a harsh climate for the winter, or a horse that is getting older and showing signs that his ability to extract calories from forage is declining and he needs more special attention. These horses may need to maintain relatively similar calorie intake but there could be an opportunity to shift some of those calories to maximize highly digestible fiber intake.Consider Supplement ChangesIf you have a significant supplement program, now is a good time to reevaluate. Think about what has really made a difference and what you might not need all year. Some items such as calming/focus aids, specific amino acid or muscle builders, or high doses of electrolytes might not be necessary during times of less intense exercise.Take-Home MessageAll horses are unique, and it is perfectly appropriate for them to have different feeding programs throughout the year. This is why it is so important to routinely evaluate your horses body condition score and weight. When in doubt, consult an equine nutritionist or veterinarian to develop a plan for your horses needs.Do you have an equine nutrition question? Do you have an equine nutrition question? The Horses editors want to hear from you! Submit your question via the form below. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Submit your equine nutrition below!(Required)CAPTCHA

Your Horse is supported by our audience and when you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Heres how it worksIt is always nice to have a coat in the wardrobe that transcends riding wear (despite the stylishness of the genre these days) and looks really smart for outings to shows, while walking the dog and even to town. Something that makes you feel a little bit extra special away from the yard and means that those sneaky hay seeds and the inevitable slight aroma of muck can well and truly stay where it belongs: in the stable. For me, Joules Portwell Waterproof Raincoat With Hood proved just such a coat, and I was like a kid in a candy store when it arrived last April for testing.I had no intention of taking this raincoat anywhere near any one of my four equines initially neither my mares Bella and Panda, nor the giant 17hh Apollo, and especially not Dill, the Welsh section A who does a good impression of a bulldozer when he spots anyone walking across his patch. No, this coat was special and it was going to be treated as such for the time being.April is my birthday, and as luck would have it the Portwell landed on my doorstep on the actual morning of a trip out with my family to celebrate. Key featuresAfter inspecting it, and loving the internal check lining, as well as the lovely quality feel of the 74% cotton outer, and the adjustable waist with internal toggles that made it instantly flattering, we headed to Chawton (yes, beyond horses I equally love English literature and Jane Austen) with me sporting the Portwell. The waist is adjustable with internal togglesIt passed muster perfectly for such a day out, providing just enough warmth for an obligingly clement spring day, but with no rain clouds threatening, the hood stayed stowed away.Disaster struck on the way home, though (and perhaps I shouldnt admit to this in case the Joules team is reading), but the Portwell ended up mistakenly sharing a box with a sandwich wrapper and drink carton detritus left over from our picnic lunch. This was the fault of my eldest son, who thought he had stowed it somewhere safe.On discovering the various sauces that had stuck to it once home, I was virtually inconsolable and I headed to the washing machine before I could even contemplate sorting out the horses evening bedtime routines. After a worrying wait, the Portwell emerged and it was, well, neutral, again (its original colourway as it had emerged from the box that morning). I couldnt find any evidence of unwelcome additions. Phew!PerformanceSince then this lovely raincoat has been the one Ive reached for on spring and autumn days, and Ive taken it on holiday too, as it packs neatly away in a suitcase and doesnt take up much room. It actually came into its own when it rained cats and dogs while away in Oslo, and while the Portwell became saturated I stayed dry inside. That roomy hood with its storm peak performed exceptionally well, too, to keep my face unexpectedly dry.In order to put the Portwell into a horsey context, I got cosy with my cob, Panda, for a quick photoshoot, but even the few muddy specks from her coat (she does live out 24/7, after all) vanished in the machine afterwards.Cosying up with PandaNIKON D90 f/4.5 1/200s 24mm ISO200ConclusionTherefore, all things considered, I cant think of a single negative to say about the Portwell, but there are so many plus points, perhaps one of the biggest being that this raincoat is available in sizes up to a 26. There will always be the dilemma of deciding which colour to plump for, and this classic staple is already selling fast on the Joules website, so anyone with a desire to add one of these to their wardrobe had better hurry up and click add to bag!Key informationColour options: Black, navy blue, burgundy, dark yellow, neutralHighlights:Vast range of sizesWaterproof with taped seamsHood with storm peak and drawcordsAdjustable waist with internal togglesStorm flap to the backConcealed zip and popper fasteningFront pockets with popper fasteningsAdjustable cuffs with poppersHalf-body liningSize options: 6 26RRP 89Buy NowThe post I cant think of a single negative to say about this stylish raincoat, but there are so many positives appeared first on Your Horse.

On January 14, a 25-year-old Quarter Horse mare in Tuscola County, Michigan, tested positive for strangles after developing nasal discharge and swollen lymph nodes. Two additional horses on the premises previously tested positive. The mare is now recovering.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About StranglesStranglesin horses is an infection caused byStreptococcus equisubspeciesequiand spread through direct contact with other equids or contaminated surfaces. Horses that arent showing clinical signs can harbor and spread the bacteria, and recovered horses remain contagious for at least six weeks, with the potential to cause outbreaks long-term.Infected horses can exhibit a variety of clinical signs:FeverSwollen and/or abscessed lymph nodesNasal dischargeCoughing or wheezingMuscle swellingDifficulty swallowingVeterinarians diagnose horses using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing with either a nasal swab, wash, or an abscess sample, and they treat most cases based on clinical signs, implementing antibiotics for severe cases. Overuse of antibiotics can prevent an infected horse from developing immunity. Most horses make a full recovery in three to four weeks.A vaccine is available but not always effective. Biosecurity measures of quarantining new horses at a facility and maintaining high standards of hygiene and disinfecting surfaces can helplower the risk of outbreakorcontain one when it occurs.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by IGNITE (@igniteforequineathletes) Mind-blowing was a go-to reaction for attendees describing their experience at IGNITEs 2nd Annual Sport Science for the Olympic Disciplines Seminar. Dedicated to advancing...

On January 16, a yearling Hanoverian colt in Seminole County, Florida, tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV). The colt, who is unvaccinated, developed clinical signs on January 5, including elevated temperature and muscle twitching. He is currently still alive.This is Floridas second confirmed case of EEE and first confirmed case of WNV in 2025.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EEE 101Eastern equine encephalomyelitis is caused by the Eastern equine encephalitis virus, for which wild birds are a natural reservoir. Mosquitoes that feed on EEE-infected birds can transmit the virus to humans, horses, and other birds. Horses do not develop high enough levels of these viruses in their blood to be contagious to other animals or humans. Because of the high mortality rate in horses and humans, EEE is regarded as one of the most serious mosquito-borne diseases in the United States.Tips for preventing mosquito-borne diseases include:Avoid mosquito bites: Use insect repellent when outdoors, especially from dusk to dawn.Look for EPA-labeled products containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin (KBR3023), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane 3,8-diol).Apply more repellent, according to label instructions, if mosquitoes start to bite.Mosquito-proof homes: Fix or install window and door screens, and cover or eliminate empty containers with standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.Protect your horses: Veterinarians recommend commercially available licensedvaccines against EEE for all horses in the U.S. Horses should be vaccinated at least annually (recommendations vary in high-risk areas). Its not too late this year to vaccinate your horses.Use approved insect repellents to protect horses.If possible, put horses in stables, stalls, or barns during the prime mosquito exposure hours of dusk and dawn.Eliminate standing water, drain water troughs, and empty buckets at least weekly.Stock water tanks with fish that consume mosquito larvae (contact your local mosquito control for assistance), or use mosquito dunks (soliddonuts ofBacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which are nontoxic to horses) available at hardware stores.WNV 101West Nile virusis transmitted to horses via bites from infected mosquitoes. Not all infected horses show clinical signs, but those that do can exhibit:Flulike signs, where the horse seems mildly anorexic and depressed;Fine and coarse muscle and skin fasciculation (involuntary twitching);Hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity to touch and sound);Changes in mentation (mental activity), when horses look like theyre daydreaming or just not with it;Occasional drowsiness;Propulsive walking (driving or pushing forward, often without control); andSpinal signs, including asymmetrical weakness; andAsymmetrical or symmetrical ataxia.West Nile virus has no cure. However, some horses can recover with supportive care. Equine mortality rates can reach 30-40%.Studies have shown thatvaccines can be effective WNV prevention tools. Horses vaccinated in past years need an annual booster shot, but veterinarians might recommend two boosters annuallyone in the spring and another in the fallin areas with prolonged mosquito seasons. In contrast, previously unvaccinated horses require a two-shot vaccination series in a three- to six-week period. It takes several weeks for horses to develop protection against the disease following complete vaccination or booster administration.In addition to vaccinations, owners should work to reduce mosquito population and breeding areas and limit horses mosquito exposure by:Removing stagnant water sources;Dumping, cleaning, and refilling water buckets and troughs regularly;Keeping animals inside during insect feeding times (typically early in the morning and evening); andApplying mosquito repellents approved for equine use.

On January 16, a 15-year-old Thoroughbred mare in San Luis Obispo County, California, tested positive for equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) secondary to equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1).The mare developed clinical signs on January 14, including ataxia and recumbency. She is currently alive and under veterinary care at an off-site veterinary hospital. Forty potentially exposed horses at the mares home premises were quarantined on January 17 with enhanced biosecurity measures implemented. There had been no recent history of travel on or off these premises by the clinical horse, and no other horses on the home premises currently have any clinical signs.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.