What causes equine ataxia?
The most common cause of ataxia is cranial and/or spinal trauma, followed by cervical vertebral myelopathy/instability (wobblers), infection (EPM, WNV, EEE/WEE/VEE, EHV-1, rabies), and degenerative disease (EDM).
What does ataxic mean in horses?
“Ataxic horses are those that are unable to control the rate, range, or force of their movements resulting in an inconsistent gait.” A normally functioning body is able to “sense” how its joints, muscles, and tendons are moving, and where all of the components of the body are in relation to each other.
Why is my horse having difficulty walking?
Whenever we see a horse having difficulty walking & standing, the first thought is to go to the hooves, specifically to the underlying tissues just under the hooves. These tissues can become very inflamed due to many causes & result in the disease known as laminitis or founder.
Why is my horse walking like he’s drunk?
Symptoms of an Ataxia The first hint for an Ataxia is a staggering walk (some people say that the horse looks drunk). Especially the movements of the hind legs seem uncontrolled and without any order or system. Then the horse needs some time until he finally is able to correct the position of his legs.
What are the signs of EPM in horses?
SYMPTOMS
- Ataxia (incoordination), spasticity (stiff, stilted movements), abnormal gait or lameness;
- Incoordination and weakness, which worsens when going up or down slopes or when head is elevated;
What is the treatment for EPM in horses?
How is EPM treated? Treatment to control infection should include an FDA-approved anticoccidial drug (Ponazuril, Diclazuril, Sulfadiazine/Pyrimethamine). Additional treatments should be provided as needed based on the severity of the clinical signs and any associated complications.
What disease do opossums carry that kills horses?
And one common neurological disease affecting American horses is equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM). Horses may develop EPM after ingesting feed or water contaminated with Sarcocystis neurona, a one-celled organism called a protozoan, that is spread by opossums and carried by other animals.
What causes wobbler syndrome in horses?
The exact cause of wobbler syndrome in horses is unknown. It is believed that the syndrome is caused by genetic predisposition, feeding excessive amounts of energy and other nutrients, rapid growth, physical trauma, decreased copper/ increased zinc levels, or a combination of these factors.
Is wobbler syndrome in horses painful?
A normal horse will not react but a “Wobbler” will withdraw by depressing the spine in a squatting position. This is not a sign of pain but a sign of weakness as a result of nerve damage.
Can horses recover from wobblers?
Treating Wobblers Syndrome Drugs can help reduce swelling that might be impairing the spinal column. Surgery can be done to support the damaged vertebrae. Nutritional therapy, physiotherapy, stall rest, and exercise can all contribute to rea horse’s recovery from wobblers syndrome.
Can horse kissing spine be cured?
In some cases, kissing spines are secondary to other health issues. Affected horses may undergo medical or surgical treatment and physical therapy. Recovery is possible, but requires time and commitment.