Page 86 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

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VetBooks.ir THE ILL OR INJURED HORSE

SIGNS OF ILL HEALTH

Sometimes the signs of ill health or injury are very obvious. On other occasions, the
symptoms can be subtle. Early recognition of a problem and prompt attention can make a big
difference to the eventual outcome. Some of the ‘warning signs’ that something is wrong are

discussed below.

Depression and withdrawal

When a horse is not feeling well, the first outward sign is often a change of demeanour. It
may be just a little quieter and less responsive than usual or very obviously depressed. These

horses will often stand on their own in the field, away from the other horses.

Change of breathing rate and pattern

The respiratory rate will increase with exercise, excitement, pain, a high temperature and

with respiratory disease. Depending on the nature of the disease, breathing may become fast
and shallow or there may be a double expiratory effort.

Temperature

The horse’s temperature will increase slightly after it has worked hard or in hot weather. A
significant rise in temperature, i.e. above 39 °C or 102 °F, is usually due to viral or bacterial

infection. A very low temperature may indicate a state of shock.

Increased pulse rate

A raised pulse rate can be due to anxiety, fear, excitement, exercise, a high temperature or
pain.

Nasal discharge