Depression in a Horse

Depression is not a clear-cut diagnosis, especially when it comes to animals. Animals may appear lethargic and may refuse to eat. This is often the case with horses that have become depressed. It's possible that depression in horses is caused by a chemical imbalance, which is similar to human depression, however, there is minimal documentation of equine depression. Some veterinarians indicate that vitamin supplements can assist a horse with depression, but results are not conclusive.

  1. Signs of Depression

    • Horses suffering from depression may appear unwilling to move around or leave their stall. They also may refuse to eat and drink. Some horses suffering from depression will seclude themselves from other horses and may shy away from human affection. Other less obvious symptoms of equine depression include violence toward humans or visibly increased irritability. Depression can be a sign of a greater health problem. If you suspect your horse is depressed, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately.

    Causes of Equine Depression

    • The causes of horse depression are as varied as they are in people and, in some cases, have similar roots. Trauma, stress, anxiety and fear are all causes for equine depression. Horses may suffer from a chemical imbalance, although the number one cause for depression in a horse is viral. When horses suffer from Eastern or Western Encephalitis, a viral infection, the main symptom is depression. This is one of reasons that making sure a veterinarian is involved immediately is so important. If left untreated, it can cause depression, seizures, coma and possibly death.

    Exercise as Treatment

    • One of the top treatments for equine depression is exercise. Keeping a horse's body physically healthy will assist in alleviating depression. It will give it a focus and, for situational depression caused by fear or anxiety, it may entirely remove the symptoms of depression.

    Drug Therapy as Treatment

    • Drug therapy is also a method of treating depression in horses. If a chemical imbalance is causing the issue, treating the imbalance with supplements can be effective. Drug therapy should be attempted under the watchful eye of a licensed veterinarian.

    Alternative treatment

    • Emotional release is a treatment method that has gained popularity in assisting horses with depression. It is a hands-on exercise that builds a relationship with the trainer and helps build a healthier emotional response. Some horses have responded well to acupressure and aromatherapy.