Lethargic when ridden

For some horses, lethargy is more apparent when ridden. In addition to the conditions already described, other potential causes include inflammatory airway disease, asthma and equine gastric ulcer syndrome.

■ Horses with airway inflammation may present with lethargy and poor performance when ridden. If severe, a presumptive diagnosis may be rapidly reached. However, often signs are subtle and the patient may have a mildly increased respiratory rate accompanying lethargy/reduced performance, prompting investigation into the respiratory tract. Endoscopy and evaluation of samples of airway fluid can confirm the suspected diagnosis. Treatment is based on steroidal anti-inflammatories and bronchodilators, in addition to environmental and dietary modifications.

■ Gastric ulceration can also cause lethargy, reduced performance and lack of willingness to go forwards, in addition to many other clinical signs. The diagnosis is confirmed following gastroscopy examination. Treatment is based on omeprazole to reduce stomach acid, with or without concurrent drugs to line the stomach. Management and dietary modifications are also indicated.

Fortunately, for most causes, once a diagnosis has been reached and the condition is treated, a positive outcome is obtained. Some conditions can reoccur and therefore require ongoing management modifications to be kept at bay.

Sometimes a dip in performance and feeling below par is the first sign that something is amiss