Equine Diseases: Recognizing, Treating & Preventing

What are equine diseases?

‍Equine diseases are illnesses and health conditions that affect horses, ranging from infectious diseases like strangles or equine influenza to metabolic disorders such as Cushing’s disease and EMS. They can impact various systems in the horse’s body—respiratory, digestive, musculoskeletal, and more—and may be acute or chronic in nature. Early detection and proper management are essential to maintaining horse health and performance.

Locomotor System Disorders (Musculoskeletal & Hoof Ailments)

Laminitis (common equine disease)

Laminitis is one of the most painful and feared equine diseases. It involves inflammation of the laminae — the sensitive tissues that connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone. In severe cases, it can lead to the rotation or sinking of the bone within the hoof, resulting in permanent lameness or euthanasia.

Common triggers include nutritional imbalances (e.g. excess starch or protein), hormonal disorders such as Cushing’s disease or equine metabolic syndrome, toxic reactions, or mechanical overload (e.g. on hard surfaces or from compensatory lameness).

Typical symptoms of laminitis in horses:

• Sawhorse stance to relieve pressure on the front hooves
• Sudden lameness or reluctance to move
• Warm hooves, increased digital pulse
• Restlessness, sweating, signs of pain

Initial response: Place the horse on soft ground, apply cold therapy (e.g. ice water), reduce feed intake immediately, and contact your veterinarian without delay.

Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

Arthritis, also referred to as osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that affects many older horses or those with intense physical demands. It involves the breakdown of cartilage, leading to joint inflammation, pain, and restricted mobility. While not curable, it can be managed to preserve quality of life.

Key symptoms:

• Stiffness after rest
• Joint swelling
• Reduced performance or discomfort during specific movements
• Resistance to being ridden or handled

Management: Incorporates low-impact exercise, anti-inflammatory medication, targeted supplementation (e.g. glucosamine, MSM), and in some cases, intra-articular injections or regenerative therapies.

Kissing Spines

Kissing spines, or overriding dorsal spinous processes, is a painful condition in which the bony projections of the vertebrae in the back come too close or touch. This causes chronic inflammation, muscle tension, and often behavioral changes under saddle.

Common signs:

• Tight or hollow back
• Saddle aversion or aggressive reactions during tacking
• Bucking, rearing, or resistance during work
• Decreased performance

Treatment strategies include anti-inflammatory therapy, physiotherapy, saddle adjustment, and long-term core strengthening exercises. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered.

Suspensory Ligament Injury

Suspensory ligament injuries are among the most frequent causes of lameness in sport horses. These injuries result from overloading, incorrect training, or work on hard or uneven surfaces, affecting the ligament that supports the fetlock joint.

Symptoms:

• Lameness, especially at the trot
• Localized heat and swelling near the fetlock
• Sensitivity to palpation

Rehabilitation may involve stall rest, anti-inflammatory medication, controlled exercise plans, shockwave therapy, or regenerative treatments depending on the severity.

Splint Bone Fracture

Splint bone fractures typically occur due to trauma — such as a kick or fall — and can result in acute lameness. The splint bones are small bones located on either side of the cannon bone.

Diagnosis: Requires veterinary examination and radiographs to assess the extent and location of the fracture.

Treatment options: Rest and anti-inflammatory therapy for minor fractures, or surgical removal of bone fragments in more severe cases.

Swayback (Sunken Back)

A swayback, or lordosis, is a noticeable dip in the horse’s topline. It’s often caused by poor muscling, aging, improper saddle fit, or genetic predisposition. While typically not painful in itself, it can indicate or lead to functional issues.

Management: Includes correcting saddle fit, targeted strength training, groundwork, and back exercises designed to support core musculature and posture.

Digestive & Metabolic Conditions

Colic (Including Sand Impaction, Torsion, Ulcers)

Colic is a collective term for abdominal pain in horses and is one of the most common and urgent equine health problems. The causes range from gas buildup and impaction to severe conditions like intestinal torsion or strangulation. Colic requires immediate veterinary attention.

Typical signs of colic in horses:

• Restlessness, pawing at the ground, rolling
• Sweating, elevated heart rate
• Reduced or absent manure production
• Repeated lying down and getting up

Emergency response: Remove all feed, walk the horse calmly (if safe), record vital signs, and call the veterinarian immediately. Do not administer painkillers without professional guidance, as they may mask critical symptoms.

Esophageal Obstruction (Choke)

Choke occurs when food or foreign material becomes lodged in the esophagus, often due to rapid eating or insufficient chewing. Unlike colic, it does not involve the airway but still requires urgent veterinary care.

Symptoms:

• Coughing, gagging, stretching the neck
• Nasal discharge containing feed or saliva
• Anxiety or repeated attempts to swallow

Do not force the horse to eat or drink. Keep it calm and contact a veterinarian promptly for safe resolution of the blockage.

Hoof Abscess

A hoof abscess is a localized infection within the hoof, often caused by penetrating injuries or debris. It is a very common cause of acute lameness in horses and can appear suddenly and severely.

Common symptoms:

• Sudden, severe lameness (sometimes mistaken for a fracture)
• Heat in the hoof, strong digital pulse
• Pain when picking or pressing the hoof

Treatment: The abscess must be drained by a farrier or veterinarian. The hoof is usually bandaged with a drawing agent (e.g. ichthammol or Epsom salt paste), followed by rest until healing occurs.

Cushing's Disease (PPID)

Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), commonly known as Cushing’s disease, is a hormonal disorder that affects aging horses. It is caused by benign tumors of the pituitary gland, leading to excessive cortisol production and metabolic disruption.

Signs of Cushing’s disease in horses:

• Long, curly coat that doesn’t shed properly
• Muscle loss, lethargy, and abnormal fat distribution
• Recurrent infections or laminitis
• Fat deposits above the eyes and along the tailhead

Management: Long-term treatment with medication (e.g. pergolide, sold as Prascend), regular veterinary monitoring, and a diet tailored to the horse’s metabolic needs.

Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)

Equine metabolic syndrome is a condition associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and a high risk of laminitis. It most commonly affects easy keepers and native breeds and is similar in nature to type 2 diabetes in humans.

Treatment goals:

• Weight loss through controlled feeding and exercise
• Low-sugar, low-starch diet
• Monitoring of insulin levels and hoof health
• Nutritional support for metabolic balance

Proper management of EMS is crucial to prevent life-threatening hoof problems and systemic complications.

PSSM (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy)

Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy is a genetic muscle disorder primarily found in Quarter Horses, draft breeds, and warmbloods. It causes the muscles to store excess glycogen, leading to painful episodes of tying-up.

Symptoms include:

• Stiffness, reluctance to move, muscle cramping
• Sweating, trembling, or lying down
• Dark-colored urine (indicative of muscle breakdown)

Management strategies:

• Special diet high in fat, low in non-structural carbohydrates
• Consistent, low-intensity exercise
• Genetic testing for diagnosis and tailored care

Infectious Diseases & Biosecurity

Strangles (common horse illness; major contagious disease)

Strangles is a highly contagious equine disease caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi. It is especially common in young horses and spreads rapidly in stables through direct contact or contaminated equipment.

Symptoms of strangles in horses:

• High fever
• Swelling and abscesses in the lymph nodes (especially throatlatch)
• Thick, yellow nasal discharge
• Loss of appetite and lethargy

Biosecurity and treatment: Infected horses must be isolated immediately. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medication, draining of abscesses, and supportive care. Hygiene protocols and quarantine are essential to contain outbreaks. Vaccination can reduce severity but doesn't guarantee complete prevention.

Equine Influenza (“Flu”)

Equine influenza is a highly contagious viral respiratory infection that affects the horse’s upper airway. It spreads quickly through aerosols, direct contact, and shared tack.

Common signs of equine flu:

• Sudden fever
• Dry, hacking cough
• Nasal discharge
• Poor performance and fatigue

Management: Horses require rest, hydration, and a dust-free environment. Vaccination is the most effective prevention, especially for horses that travel or compete frequently.

Equine Herpesvirus (EHV)

EHV is a family of viruses that can cause respiratory illness, neurological disease, abortion in pregnant mares, and neonatal death. The most concerning strain is EHV-1, known for its neurological form.

Key symptoms:

• Fever, nasal discharge, cough
• Weakness, ataxia, incoordination (neurological form)
• Reproductive losses

Control: Involves strict isolation of affected horses, supportive care, and targeted vaccination programs.

Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA)

EIA is a viral disease transmitted primarily through biting insects and contaminated needles. It's a notifiable disease, meaning positive horses must often be euthanized or permanently quarantined.

Signs of EIA (often intermittent):

• Recurrent fever
• Weight loss and lethargy
• Swelling in the lower limbs or chest
• Anemia

Prevention: There is no vaccine or treatment. Coggins testing is used for diagnosis and control.

Other Notables (e.g. West Nile, Encephalomyelitis, Piroplasmosis)

Additional serious horse viruses include:

• West Nile Virus: Causes neurologic symptoms like ataxia, muscle tremors, and recumbency. Preventable via vaccination.
• Eastern & Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE): Mosquito-borne diseases that cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Often fatal.
• Equine Piroplasmosis: A tick-borne blood parasite that causes anemia, jaundice, and fever. More common in tropical and subtropical climates.

Strict vector control, hygiene, and biosecurity are critical for managing these threats.

Dermatological & Skin Conditions

Mud Fever

Mud fever, also known as pastern dermatitis, is a common skin condition that affects the lower legs, especially in wet and muddy conditions. It's typically caused by a combination of moisture, bacterial or fungal infections, and skin irritation.

Symptoms:

• Crusting and scabs in the pastern area
• Redness, swelling, and oozing skin
• Pain when touched or cleaned
• In more severe cases, lameness

Treatment: Gently clean and dry the affected area, trim excess hair, and apply anti-inflammatory or antiseptic ointments. Improving stable hygiene and avoiding prolonged wet conditions are essential preventive steps.

Sweet Itch

Sweet itch is a seasonal allergic skin reaction caused by bites from midges (Culicoides spp.). It most commonly affects the mane, tail, and belly line and can cause significant discomfort.

Signs of sweet itch in horses:

• Intense itching and constant rubbing
• Hair loss and open sores
• Secondary skin infections

Prevention and management: Use of fly sheets, insect repellents, midge-proof stabling, and dietary support for skin health. In chronic cases, immunotherapy or antihistamines may help.

Equine Sarcoid (Skin Tumor)

Equine sarcoids are the most common type of skin tumor in horses. Though typically benign, they can be invasive, disfiguring, and prone to recurrence.

Common forms include:

• Occult (flat, hairless)
• Verrucous (warty)
• Nodular (under the skin)
• Fibroblastic (ulcerated and aggressive)

Treatment options: Vary based on type and location – may include surgical removal, laser therapy, cryotherapy, immunotherapy (e.g. BCG injections), or topical cytotoxic creams. Early intervention increases success.

Respiratory Disorders

Equine Asthma (COPD)

Formerly known as COPD or heaves, equine asthma is a chronic, non-infectious inflammation of the lower airways, usually triggered by environmental allergens like dust or mold.

Key symptoms:

• Chronic coughing (dry or productive)
• Labored breathing, visible heave line
• Reduced stamina and poor performance
• Nasal discharge

Management strategies:

• Dust-free environment (e.g. steamed hay, paper bedding)
• Adequate ventilation and turnout
• Inhalation therapy or corticosteroids for flare-ups
• Consistent light exercise to improve lung function

Laryngeal Hemiplegia (“Roaring”)

This condition affects the recurrent laryngeal nerve, causing partial paralysis of the vocal cord. It’s most common in large breed horses like Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods, especially those in heavy work.

Clinical signs:

• High-pitched “roaring” noise during inhalation
• Exercise intolerance
• Occasional coughing

Treatment: Varies by severity. Mild cases may be managed conservatively; advanced cases often require a tie-back surgery (laryngoplasty) to open the airway.

Pneumonia (Lung Infection)

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be bacterial, viral, or fungal in origin. It is particularly dangerous in foals, geriatric horses, or after transport-related stress.

Symptoms:

• Fever and depression
• Deep, moist cough
• Loss of appetite
• Thick nasal discharge

Treatment: Requires prompt veterinary intervention with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and supportive care such as steam inhalation and stall rest. Complications may include lung abscesses or chronic respiratory damage.

Ophthalmic & Neurological Issues

Eye Injuries

Equine eyes are large, sensitive, and prone to injury from dust, branches, insects, or UV light. Even minor issues can escalate quickly, making prompt veterinary evaluation essential.

Typical signs of an eye injury:

• Squinting or holding the eye shut
• Excessive tearing or discharge
• Swelling of the eyelid or surrounding tissue
• Rubbing the eye or head against objects

Important: Never apply medication without diagnosis, especially not corticosteroid creams, as they can worsen certain corneal conditions. Eye injuries should always be treated as potential emergencies.

Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU / Moon Blindness)

ERU is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammation of the eye and one of the leading causes of blindness in horses. It’s often painful, progressive, and may affect one or both eyes.

Symptoms include:

• Periodic flare-ups with redness, squinting, and light sensitivity
• Cloudiness of the eye (corneal edema or lens opacity)
• Decreased vision or behavioral changes
• Shrinking of the affected eye over time

Treatment: Involves aggressive anti-inflammatory therapy during flare-ups and potentially surgical intervention such as vitrectomy. Long-term management is often necessary.

Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM)

EPM is a serious neurological disease caused by protozoa (typically Sarcocystis neurona), transmitted via contaminated feed or water. It affects the central nervous system and presents with a wide range of symptoms depending on lesion location.

Key symptoms of EPM in horses:

• Asymmetrical incoordination or weakness
• Muscle atrophy, especially in the hindquarters or face
• Difficulty swallowing, abnormal gait
• Behavioral changes or head tilt

Diagnosis & treatment: Requires neurological exams and blood or CSF analysis. Treated with antiprotozoal medication and supportive care. Early intervention improves prognosis.

Ataxia & Neurological Disorders

Ataxia refers to a lack of muscle coordination and control, usually affecting the hind limbs. It can result from spinal cord injury, EHV-1 (neurologic strain), trauma, or congenital issues.

Signs of ataxia in horses:

• Stumbling or dragging of limbs
• Inability to walk straight
• Poor balance, crossing of legs when turning
• Abnormal reflexes or muscle tremors

Veterinary workup may include neurological tests, radiographs, and imaging (e.g. MRI or myelography). Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include anti-inflammatories, rest, or surgery.

Poisoning & Toxic Plants

Toxic Plants (e.g. ragwort, yew, box, mountain maple)

Horses are naturally selective grazers, but under certain conditions—such as poor pasture quality or boredom—they may ingest toxic plants. Some species are harmful in small quantities and can cause serious or even fatal reactions.

Common poisonous plants for horses:

• Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea): Liver damage from pyrrolizidine alkaloids
• Yew (Taxus baccata): Extremely toxic, often fatal, causes cardiac arrest
• Mountain maple (Acer spp.): Can lead to atypical myopathy (muscle breakdown)
• Boxwood, laburnum, autumn crocus: Various toxic effects on heart, liver, or nervous system

Signs of poisoning in horses:

• Sudden weakness, trembling, or collapse
• Colic, diarrhea, or lack of appetite
• Irregular heartbeat or difficulty breathing
• Jaundice, ataxia, or seizures

Emergency action: Remove all feed and suspected sources, contact a veterinarian immediately, and secure plant samples for identification. Never induce vomiting—horses are physically unable to vomit.

Prevention: Regularly inspect pastures, remove toxic plants, and educate all caretakers about plant safety.

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First Aid & Emergency Measures

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First Aid & Emergency Measures

Emergency Kit Essentials

A well-stocked equine first aid kit is vital for responding to health emergencies. It should be easily accessible, regularly checked, and stored in a clean, dry place.

Basic items to include:

• Thermometer
• Sterile gauze pads and cotton rolls
• Self-adhesive bandages (e.g. Vetrap)
• Wound disinfectant (e.g. iodine solution, chlorhexidine)
• Zinc ointment, drawing salve
• Disposable gloves, scissors, tweezers
• Flashlight
• Notebook with emergency contacts (veterinarian, farrier, poison control)
• Halter and lead rope

Vital Signs & Normal Ranges

Knowing your horse’s normal values helps identify emergencies quickly:

• Heart rate: 28–44 beats per minute (feel at mandibular artery)
• Respiratory rate: 8–16 breaths per minute (observe flank movement)
• Rectal temperature: 37.5–38.2 °C (99.5–100.8 °F)
• Capillary refill time: ≤ 2 seconds (press on gum tissue and release)

Significant deviations indicate a need for veterinary attention.

Typical Emergencies & Immediate Response

Colic

• Remove all food
• Walk the horse calmly—no forced movement
• Record vital signs
• Call the vet immediately

Severe bleeding

• Apply a pressure bandage
• Monitor bleeding and avoid removing embedded objects
• Contact a veterinarian

Lameness / Tendon injury

• Apply cold therapy (e.g. water, ice wraps)
• Confine to a soft-surfaced stall
• Inform the vet promptly

Heatstroke

• Move to a shaded area
• Cool with cold water, especially chest and neck
• Monitor breathing and heart rate
• Notify the veterinarian

Suspected poisoning

• Secure any feed or plant samples
• Do not administer anything orally
• Contact both your veterinarian and poison control hotline

Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not give medications without veterinary consultation
• Do not apply ointments or drops to eyes without a diagnosis
• Do not force the horse to roll or move during colic
• Do not remove foreign objects (e.g. nails from hooves)

Conclusion & Further Resources

Effective horse health management starts with awareness, observation, and preparation. While it's impossible to prevent every illness, many common equine diseases can be identified early, treated appropriately, and even prevented with responsible care and informed decision-making.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the most frequent horse illnesses and their symptoms. To deepen your knowledge, explore further resources from the ClipMyHorse.TV Health section, including expert interviews, real-world case studies, and veterinarian-led videos. Well-informed horse owners are the first line of defense when it comes to equine well-being.

FAQ: Common Equine Diseases

What are the most common equine diseases?

Some of the most common horse illnesses include colic, laminitis, equine influenza, strangles, Cushing’s disease (PPID), and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). These conditions affect various body systems and range from mild to life-threatening.

What are the signs of illness in a horse?

Common symptoms of equine disease include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, coughing, nasal discharge, abnormal gait, or behavioral changes. Monitoring vital signs and knowing your horse's normal behavior are essential for early detection.

Can horses recover from common illnesses?

Yes, many common horse diseases are treatable, especially if diagnosed early. Conditions like hoof abscesses, mild colic, and respiratory infections often respond well to timely veterinary care.

How can I prevent diseases in my horse?

Prevention includes proper nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, parasite control, biosecurity practices, and maintaining a clean, low-stress environment. Monitoring weight and exercise also helps prevent metabolic disorders like EMS.

Is strangles in horses contagious?

Yes, strangles is a highly contagious bacterial infection. It spreads via direct contact or shared equipment and requires strict isolation protocols and hygiene measures to control outbreaks.

What is the difference between EMS and Cushing’s disease?

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is typically linked to obesity and insulin resistance, while Cushing’s disease (PPID) is a hormonal disorder caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland. Both can increase the risk of laminitis but require different diagnostic and treatment approaches.

What is the first aid response for equine colic?

Remove food, keep the horse calm and walking (without forcing movement), record vital signs, and call the veterinarian immediately. Never administer medication without veterinary advice, as it may mask important symptoms.