What Are the Treatments for Wobbler Syndrome in Horses?

Wobbler syndrome is a condition that causes horses to be clumsy and uncoordinated. According to the University of Kentucky, it is the result of a compressed spinal cord. If your horse has the "wobbly" gait that characterizes Wobbler syndrome, treatment options include drug therapy, management techniques and surgery. With early diagnosis and treatment, your horse can lead a long, healthy life.

  1. Diagnosis

    • If you suspect that your horse has Wobbler syndrome, make an appointment with your veterinarian. He will exam your horse and look for signs of spinal cord damage. Tests might include checking to see if your horse has trouble backing up or if she has weakness in her tail. The veterinarian may also perform radiographs to detect problems with your horse's vertebrae.

    Non-Surgical Treatment Options

    • Although surgery is an option, it is extremely costly. Your veterinarian may instead recommend non-surgical treatments, such as modifying your horse's diet in order to affect the growth rate of his spine or treating him with vitamin supplements or drugs that reduce the swelling of nerve tissue. According to the Best Friends Animal Society, vitamin E can help repair damage to the nerves.

    Surgery

    • Veterinary surgeons use procedures that help eliminate compression of the spinal cord. The most common type is called cervical stabilization. It involves fusing a joint with a metal insert, which minimizes joint instability. Another surgical procedure, which isn't performed as often, is called a dorsal laminectomy. This procedure involves removing portions of bone in the spine, which helps alleviate pressure. If surgery is performed immediately following diagnosis, the chances are higher that your horse's condition will improve.