Wobbler Syndrome in Horses

Wobbler syndrome in horses is the name for several forms of disease that cause malformation of the spinal cord. This spinal cord damage can cause many neurological symptoms. The disease is difficult to diagnose and requires aggressive treatment.

  1. Types

    • The most common state of wobbler syndrome is cervical vertebral malformation (CVM). This disease is characterized by malformation or compression of the spinal cord. There are two types of CVM. Cervical vertebral instability (CVI) causes spinal cord compression and usually affects horses between 4 and 12 months of age. Cervical static stenosis (CSS) is a condition in which the cervical canal closes and compresses the spinal cord. CSS is most common in horses between 12 and 36 months of age.

    Causes

    • Although the exact cause of wobbler syndrome is unknown, several factors are believed to be connected to the disease. Genetic predisposition, nutritional imbalances, rapid growth, physical trauma or a combination of these factors are thought to be tied to wobbler syndrome.

    Symptoms

    • Spinal cord malformation or compression interferes with messages sent from the brain to the nerves of the body. This leads to loss of coordination, especially in the hind limbs. As the disease progresses, it can lead to weight loss and weakness. In rare cases, wobbler syndrome can result in death.

    Diagnosis

    • Wobbler syndrome is diagnosed by taking quality radiographs of the cervical region. These X-rays will show lesions or malformations of the vertebrae. A clinical test, called a sway test, can be performed by having one person lead the horse while the other pulls on the horse's tail. A normal horse will brace himself against the pull the second time, whereas a horse with wobbler syndrome will not be able to steady himself against the pulling.

    Treatment

    • Horses with wobbler syndrome can be treated through drug therapy, surgery or symptom management. Drug therapy and surgery are often expensive and impractical for some horse owners. About half of horses with wobbler syndrome can make a complete recovery. Nutritional management and a specified exercise regimen combined with early and aggressive treatment ensure the best chances of recovery.