Page 747 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

inhalation is suspected, antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are given.

The horse should be monitored for any signs of inhalation pneumonia. These include a
VetBooks.ir raised temperature and respiratory rate, coughing and general malaise.

Prognosis

The prognosis is generally good. By far the majority of horses make a full recovery without
complications.

Horses with inhalation pneumonia and oesophageal strictures have a guarded prognosis.

Prevention

• Regular feeding in a relaxed environment is helpful as the horse is less likely to bolt its

food.
• Avoid feeding cubes to horses that choke regularly. Many cubed diets are now soaked

prior to feeding.
• Make sure that apples and carrots are cut up into small pieces.

• Dampen all feeds.

• Soak sugar beet as directed prior to feeding.

• Have the horse’s teeth checked regularly.
• Rounded objects can be placed in the horses feed bowl to slow down eating.

EQUINE GASTRIC ULCER SYNDROME (EGUS)

The stomach of the horse is located in the upper part of the abdominal cavity behind the

diaphragm and the liver, mostly on the horse’s left side. The inside of the stomach can be
divided into two areas. The oesophagus opens into the upper, non-glandular region. This area

is white in colour and lined with squamous epithelium (Figure 17.3a). The lower, glandular
area which produces hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes is reddish brown in colour and
opens into the small intestine though the pyloric sphincter. Between the glandular and non-

glandular areas is a raised ridge of tissue (the margo plicatus).