VetInsight Pakistan

 ​​1. What is Stringhalt?​​ Stringhalt is a disease that causes a sudden and exaggerated movement (flexion) of the horse’s hind limbs while moving in particular positions. When backing up or turning around quickly, a horse will have an exaggerated upward movement of its hind legs in stringhalt. Equine Stringhalt anatomy hock joint lateral digital extensor muscle VetInsight PK 2. What are the types of Stringhalt? There are two major types of stringhalt classified by veterinarians: a. Australian Stringhalt:  Is an outbreak of stringhalt that can occur in a large number of horses after the consumption of toxic plant materials like False Dandelion ( Hypochaeris radicata ). b. Ordinary (or sporadic) Stringhalt:  Affects one leg at a time as a result of injuries or trauma of the hock region. 3. What are the clinical signs?  Spasmodic Jerk:  The horse’s hind leg jerks upward while moving towards its abdomen. Hoof Slapping:  Once the horse lifts its hind leg sud...

1. What is Guttural Pouch Mycosis? The Guttural Pouch is an anatomical extension of the eustachian tube, exclusive to the horse. In mycosis, there is a fungal infection, which usually belongs to the Aspergillus spp., resulting in the formation of diphtheritic membranes within the guttural pouch. Anatomical location of the Equine Guttural Pouch showing fungal plaque development near the Internal Carotid Artery. | VetInsight PK 2. Why is it Dangerous? (Anatomical Significance) The guttural pouch is very close to many important structures: • Internal Carotid Artery:  The fungus may break down the walls of the artery. • Cranial Nerves:  These include nerves involved in swallowing and facial movement. 3. Symptoms  Epistaxis (Nosebleed):  This is the most important sign. It is generally non-sporting, excessive, and spontaneous. Death is possible if there is arterial rupture. Dysphagia:  Due to damage to cranial nerves, difficulty swallowing. Foul Smelling Nasal Disc...

Introduction Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) is also referred to as Equine Cushing's Disease and represents the most widespread endocrinopathy among senior equines. The condition is caused by the hyperplasia and hyperactivity of the pituitary gland, which results in increased production of hormones, especially Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH). Even though PPID is predominantly diagnosed in horses over 15 years of age, its earlier onset is increasingly observed due to more extensive veterinary screening practices. Clinical markers of Equine Cushing’s Disease (PPID): Note the Hirsutism (abnormally curly haircoat), visible Muscle Wasting over the ribs, and the poor Topline condition. These signs are hallmark indicators for veterinary diagnosis. | Image: VetInsight PK Symptoms and Clinical Signs As the disease progresses, horses may exhibit different signs. The most common ones are listed below. Hirsutism/Hypertrichosis:  Abundant hair growth on the body, making i...

 1. Introduction Laminitis is a serious condition affecting the horse's hooves. It is characterized by inflammation of the sensitive laminae, which are soft tissues connecting the hoof wall to the coffin bone. When the connection between the hoof and the coffin bone breaks down, rotation or sinking of the bone can occur, referred to as Founder . Equine Hoof Anatomy: Understanding the laminar structures is essential for diagnosing Laminitis . Any disruption in the inter-laminar space leads to the rotation of the Coffin Bone , as shown in these anatomical landmarks. | Visual by VetInsight PK 2. What Triggers Laminitis? Laminitis is rarely limited to the hooves; it is often a reaction to something happening throughout the body. • Endocrine/metabolic issues:  This is the most common cause, with conditions such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome ( EMS ) and Cushing's Disease ( PPID ) causing high insulin levels, resulting in inflammation. • Poor dietary choices:  Excessive cons...

​1. Introduction ​ Equine Colic is one of the most common and life-threatening emergency cases faced by veterinarians. It is not a disease in itself but a general term used to describe abdominal pain in horses. The gastrointestinal anatomy of horses is such that they cannot vomit. Moreover, there are many sharp turns or flexures in their intestines. These two factors contribute to even minor gastrointestinal disturbances turning into life-threatening diseases. Internal anatomy of a horse showing major organs including the respiratory and circulatory systems. Proper knowledge of these structures helps in better livestock management. | Source: VetInsight PK 2. Common Types of Equine Colic ​It is important for veterinarians to know the specific type of colic so as to determine whether medical or surgical intervention is required. ​Spasmodic (Gas) Colic ​This is the most common and least severe colic. This occurs when the intestines contract abnormally. ​Impaction Colic ​This occurs ...