Newsletters and Tips
Periodically the TSCA will publish newsletters. Please check here for the latest one.
If you would like to suggest a "Horse Tip" or a topic, please email the webmaster at webmaster@tennesseesaddleclubs.com
This Month's Horse Tip: Horse "Choke"
Horse choke occurs in horses when the
esophagus is blocked, usually by food material. The horse can breathe
but he's unable to swallow. Your horse may become severely dehydrated,
complicating the problem. Severe cases can lead to aspiration of fluid into the lungs which can lead to pneumonia!
This should be treated as an emergency and you should contact a vet immediately!
Symptoms of Horse Choke
- may cough excessively
- have a heavy nasal discharge that contains bits of feed or excessive/foamy saliva
- has difficulty swallowing
- tries to drink but water comes back through mouth or nose
- tries to retch or dislodge the obstruction
- may continuously stretch or extend the neck
Prevention of Horse Choke
- Keep your horses dental visits up to date
- Eliminate large chunks of food such as whole apples, carrots, moist food that is stuck together
- Very dry food can cause choke if the horse doesn't have free access to water
- Keep stall and field free of foreign objects such as twine, trash or any non-food item
- In the winter, make sure that the horse stays well hydrated with lots of water and minerals to encourage regular drinking
- Horses that eat fast are more apt to choke. Discourage gorging by feeding on a regular schedule or placing a small mineral block in the feeder so that the horse has to work around it to get its food.
Current Newsletter
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Past Issues
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