Sarcocystis myositis in horses is a parasitic infection causing muscle inflammation, stiffness, and weakness.

Sarcocystis Myositis

Seek veterinary advice if you suspect this disease.

Sarcocystis myositis is a disease in horses caused by the parasitic protozoan Sarcocystis spp., which infects and damages muscle tissue, leading to muscle pain, weakness, and lameness. This parasite affects a wide range of animals, including cattle, sheep, pigs, and various wildlife species, where it forms cysts in the muscle tissue of intermediate hosts. Diagnosis typically involves muscle biopsy or serological tests.

Symptoms

  • Muscle wastage
  • Muscle swelling
  • Weakness
  • Stiff posture
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Reluctance to move
  • Lameness

Common in

  • Middle-aged horses

Treatment

Treatment for Sarcocystis myositis typically involves administering anti-parasitic medications to target and eliminate the Sarcocystis protozoa. Supportive care may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce muscle inflammation and pain, and rehabilitation exercises to aid in muscle recovery and function.

Prevention

Preventing Sarcocystis myositis in horses involves minimizing exposure to contaminated feed or water sources where the parasite’s intermediate hosts may shed cysts. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting feeding areas and ensuring proper hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of infection.

How Happie can help you manage your horse's health

Digital health management offers numerous benefits in modern equine healthcare.

With the Happie Horse App, you can track symptom patterns and body values, such as Temperature, Pulse and Respiration. Allowing you to notice abnormal changes in body and behaviour early on, leading to more successful treatments.

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