Chronic Inflammatory Disease in Horses

There are many chronic inflammatory diseases that horses can acquire. Some may be debilitating if not diagnosed promptly and properly. Some diseases, like colic, can cause other inflammatory conditions. Prompt and appropriate veterinary care is important.

  1. Equine Granulomatous Enteritis

    • Equine granulomatious enteritis is similar to inflammatory bowel disease. It causes abdominal pain and diarrhea, among other symptoms.

    Endometritis

    • Mares can acquire endometritis, an inflammation of the uterus, if they have delayed passing of the fetal membranes or become infected during foaling.

    Laminitis

    • The swelling of the laminae in the foot is the cause of laminitis. It can cause lameness and can affect one or all four feet.

    Cholangiohepatitis

    • Cholangiohepatitis is inflammation of the bile duct that spreads into the liver. It can cause colic in horses.

    Chorioptic Mange

    • Inflammation around the pastern can cause the skin to become itchy, lose its hair and thicken.

    Cholitis

    • Cholitis can be caused by changes in food, infections, stress and certain medications. It is the inflammation of the colon.