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Esophageal Obstruction (Choke) in Horses

Alt. Names: Esophageal choke, Choke, Esophageal blockage, Food impaction

This disease is life-threatening and should be treated by a veterinarian swiftly.

Definition of Esophageal Obstruction in Horses

Esophageal Obstruction Obstructions, more commonly referred to as Choke, are caused by an acute obstruction of the esophagus when horses consume concentrated feed, hay, straw, treats and other feed too fast without chewing it thoroughly. Since the feed does not get softened with saliva it forms a hard blockage. It can also be caused by the ingestion of non-feed objects getting lodged.

Symptoms of Esophageal Obstruction in Horses

  • Excessive Salivation
  • Difficulty Swallowing
  • Food particles falling out
  • Retching
  • Restless
  • Anxious
  • Low Appetite
  • Coughing
  • High Respiration
  • Tremors
  • Nasal Discharge
  • Extended Neck

Treatment of Esophageal Obstruction in Horses

Horses with choke are usually given specific medicines to help relax their oesophagus, which may include a sedative to keep them calm.
They may also be given be given some anti-inflammatories and pain relief as the oesophagus can become inflamed and sore.
In some cases horses are given a course of antibiotics to protect them from developing lung infections, such as pneumonia, which is a potential complication of choke.
In many cases, if the choke fails to clear with conservative treatments, it maybe necessary to pass a stomach tube and attempt to gradually lavage (wash out) the obstruction.

Prevention of Esophageal Obstruction in Horses

To prevent Choke, you can soak your horse’s feed for 30 minutes and slow down the consumption by spreading it out on the ground or using smooth large rocks in the feeder or buying a specific slow-feeder. Regular teeth floating will remove dental ridges and help prevent Choke.

How Happie can help you manage your horse's health

Happie Horse App digitale Gesundheitsakte

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.

The Happie symptom checker allows you to add all of your horse's abnormal symptoms in order to present potential causes and diseases.

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