-
Cushing’s Disease: Signs & Management
Cushing’s disease, or pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting senior horses. The condition results from abnormal growth of cells in the pituitary gland, typically the pars intermedia region, leading to excessive production of hormones that disrupt normal metabolic function. While Cushing’s disease is not curable, early detection…
-
Head Shaking Syndrome
Head shaking syndrome is a poorly understood idiopathic condition that affects horses worldwide, causing repetitive head movements and behavioral changes that can range from mildly annoying to completely disabling. Characterized by vertical, horizontal, or rotational head tossing occurring spontaneously during rest and exercise, this condition has no universally accepted cure and can be profoundly frustrating…
-
Wobbler Syndrome
Wobbler Syndrome, medically known as cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy (CVSM), is a serious neurological condition that affects the spinal cord in the neck region of horses. The syndrome develops when the cervical (neck) vertebrae become unstable or misaligned, narrowing the spinal canal and compressing the spinal cord. This compression disrupts nerve impulses traveling between the…
-
EPM: Symptoms and Treatments
Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis, commonly known as EPM, is a serious neurological disease that affects horses throughout North America. Caused by the parasite Sarcocystis neurona, EPM damages the spinal cord and brain, leading to progressive weakness, incoordination, and loss of muscular control. The disease is endemic in many regions of the United States, with horses at…
-
Hair Loss in Horses
Hair loss in horses is a common concern for owners and caretakers, ranging from minor seasonal shedding to significant bald patches that signal underlying health problems. While some hair loss is completely normal as horses transition between seasonal coats, unexplained or localized hair loss should prompt a closer investigation into the horse’s health, nutrition, environment,…
-
Best Grooming Products for Sensitive Skin
Horses with sensitive skin require specialized grooming care to prevent irritation, infection, and discomfort. Whether your horse has environmental allergies, rain rot, sweet itch, or naturally reactive skin, selecting the right grooming products is essential to maintain coat health and overall well-being. Sensitive skin in horses can manifest as excessive itching, hives, hair loss, scabbing,…
-
Scratches / Mud Fever
Scratches, also known as mud fever, is a common inflammatory skin condition affecting horses’ legs and lower limbs. This fungal and bacterial infection thrives in wet, muddy, and unsanitary conditions, making it a frequent concern for horse owners in areas with poor drainage or high moisture. The condition can progress rapidly if left untreated, potentially…
-
Sweet Itch (insect allergy)
Sweet itch, clinically known as equine insect hypersensitivity or summer eczema, is an allergic reaction to biting insect saliva—most commonly from Culicoides midges (no-see-ums). This condition affects horses of all ages and breeds, though some bloodlines show increased genetic predisposition. Sweet itch is one of the most common skin allergies in horses, causing intense itching,…
-
Rain Rot: Prevention & Treatment
Rain rot is one of the most common skin conditions affecting horses, especially during wet seasons or in humid climates. Also known as dermatophilosis, this bacterial infection thrives in damp conditions and can spread quickly across a horse’s body if left untreated. While rain rot is not life-threatening in most cases, it causes significant discomfort,…
-
How to Reduce Dust Exposure in Barns
Dust in horse barns is one of the most common environmental hazards affecting equine respiratory health, yet many horse owners underestimate its impact. Horses naturally inhale significant amounts of dust particles when they eat, move through their stalls, and exercise in enclosed spaces. Over time, chronic dust exposure can trigger inflammatory airway disease (IAD), equine…