If you are a horse lover, life seems perfect when your four-legged companion is happy and healthy. But you are bound to get worried if the animal suddenly stops eating or drinking. The reasons may vary, from something as simple as a mood swing to a critical medical condition that requires immediate attention. It is vital to find the underlying cause and address it at the earliest if you want your horse to be at its fittest best. Here are some reasons why horses lose their appetite.
You have a picky eater
Some animals are picky like kids, and you cannot even understand a valid reason for refusal to eat. It often happens with new horse owners who aren’t aware of the food preferences of the animal. You can expect the horse to avoid food, only because the smell, taste, or texture of the feed is not the same. It may also lose appetite if you add supplements or medications into the grain. Addressing the issue is easy, as you only have to follow the animal’s preferences and keep the diet consistent. A little trial and error will give you a fair idea about what it likes.
Digestive issues can suppress appetite
A more serious reason for the horse losing its appetite is an underlying digestive issue. Equine colic is one of the most common digestive ailments and causes repulsion for food. Look for other symptoms such as an elevated heart rate, sweating, and trying to lie down. It is best to call a vet for a medical examination and treatment if you notice these warning signs. The horse may also avoid food if it has pancreatitis, which is even more serious than colic. Early diagnosis and treatment can be lifesaving, so you must report the loss of appetite to a specialist right away. Fortunately, you can try CBD as a natural aid to address most gut issues and get your equine’s diet back on track.
Dental problems make it hard to chew
Surprisingly, equines can suffer from dental problems just like humans do. Chewing may be painful, or the animal may not be able to chew at all. Look for other symptoms such as refraining to accept bites, dropping feed from the mouth, and undigested grain in the manure. Gradually, its coat condition may deteriorate due to the lack of nutrition. Regular dental checkups and routine dental care can save the animal from teeth problems. You may need to consult an equine dentist if the animal’s teeth get loose, fractured, or infected. The specialist may also recommend floating, a procedure involving the removal of sharp edges to enable the animal to chew properly.
Whether you are a first-time horse owner or have owned one for years, keeping track of the animal’s appetite is important. Poor feeding can be an early warning of a serious health issue that requires quick medical intervention. Ensure that you never delay a vet visit because timely treatment can save the horse from a lot of trouble in the long run.
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