Health

Help your horse avoid ‘choke.’

“Choke” is a blockage in your horse’s esophagus that makes it impossible for him to swallow. It doesn’t stop his breathing and may resolve on its own, but in severe cases it can cause scarring, which then increases the risk of future chokes. Gobbling feed and inadequate chewing contribute to choke; hay cubes, pellets, and unsoaked beet pulp are common culprits. If you see saliva and feed material coming from your horse’s nose and he’s coughing or gagging, call your veterinarian for advice. To guard against choke, slow your greedy eater, choose feedstuffs carefully, and/or consider soaking his feed in advance.

Even hay, which is dry, can result in choking if your horse consumes it too quickly; consider slowfeed nets and/or soaking.