Navigating Equine Choke: Symptoms & Causes

Choke is one of the most common emergencies seen in horses. It occurs when the esophagus is either partially or completely obstruction. Here, our equine veterinarians in Ocala discuss choke in horses, including the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.

What is choke in horses?

Equine choke is a medical emergency where a horse's esophagus is blocked, often caused by the horse eating too quickly and food getting stuck. Equine choke or choking can occur in horses of any age or breed. Risk factors for choke include poor teeth, feeding unsoaked food pellets or large pieces of vegetables, and growths in or deformities of the esophagus.

What are the symptoms of equine choke?

If a horse is choking, the symptoms are usually obvious, although some cases of the condition may go unnoticed. Signs of choke typically occur soon after the esophagus has become blocked.

With choke in horses, the symptoms often include:

What are the causes of equine choke?

• Foreign objects: Your horse may consume items it shouldn't, such as bailing twine. It's crucial to inspect all feed sources before giving it to your horse.
• Unsoaked feeds: Sugar beets and other food items used to produce mashes absorb a lot of water. Therefore, it is important to soak them in the correct ratios for the recommended amount of time. If pellets are not soaked or only partially soaked, they can be swallowed, and when they come into contact with saliva, they may swell up in the esophagus and become stuck.
• Dental problems: If your horse is unable to properly chew its food or experiences mouth pain that hinders chewing, it may result in large pieces of forage getting stuck.
• Snack & Treats: Certain fruits and vegetables can be served as delicious treats and sources of enrichment for horses. However, if they are not chewed properly or cut into the wrong shapes, they can become lodged in the esophagus.
• Fast eating: When horses eat their food too quickly, they may not chew it properly, leading to insufficient mixing with saliva. This can make swallowing difficult and cause the feed to become stuck.
• Clinical conditions: Some horses with conditions like a narrowed esophagus (stricture) are more prone to choke and need careful management.

What to do if your horse experiences equine choke?

If you suspect your horse is suffering from choke, immediately contact your veterinarian. While waiting for the vet to arrive, you should take the following steps:

• Do not allow your horse to eat or drink. Remove access to all food and water, as eating or drinking could increase the risk of esophageal rupture and aspiration pneumonia.
• Remove any food that is inside your horse's mouth to prevent them from swallowing it.
• Keep your horse calm by placing her in a familiar and comfortable area while you wait for the veterinarian. This will help reduce stress.
• Gently massage your horse's neck in the jugular groove with a downward motion towards the heart to facilitate circulation and movement of any blockage.

Diagnosis & Treatment for Choke in Horses

A veterinarian will diagnose choke based on various clinical symptoms, such as saliva and feed discharge from the nostrils and mouth. Endoscopy may be used to observe the esophagus and detect any obstructions.

Treatment of equine choke may require veterinary care, including flushing the esophagus and administering medications that relax the musculature of the esophageal structure. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary.

Note: The advice in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding equine animals or professional advice regarding equine regulations. Please contact your vet to diagnose your animal's condition and help navigate regulations governing the care and transportation of equine animals.

Is your horse showing any of the signs and symptoms of choke listed above? Contact our equine vets at Florida Equine Veterinary Associates right away.