What are neurological symptoms in horses?

Lack of coordination, weakness or paralysis of the hind limbs, muscle twitching, impaired vision, head pressing, aimless wandering, convulsions, circling and coma are some of the severe neurologic effects. Horses typically have non-neurologic signs, too, such loss of appetite and a depressed attitude.

How do you test for neurological problems in horses?

Commonly used neurologic tests include:

1. Tail pull. A horse typically will resist being pulled to one side by his tail.
2. Crossing the hind feet. When a horse’s hind feet are crossed when standing, he typically will move the feet quickly to a normal stance.
3. Tight circles.
4. Walking a serpentine over a curb.

Can a horse recover from EPM without treatment?

If left undiagnosed and untreated, EPM can cause devastating and lasting neurological deficits. The success rate for treated horses is high. Many will improve and a smaller percentage will recover completely, but 10-20% of cases may relapse within two years.

What are the symptoms of a horse with EPM?

Muscle atrophy, most noticeable along the topline or in the large muscles of the hindquarters, but can sometimes involve the muscles of the face or front limbs. Paralysis of muscles of the eyes, face or mouth, evident by drooping eyes, ears or lips. Difficulty swallowing. Seizures or collapse.

What are neurological symptoms?

Physical symptoms of neurological problems may include the following:

• Partial or complete paralysis.
• Muscle weakness.
• Partial or complete loss of sensation.
• Seizures.
• Difficulty reading and writing.
• Poor cognitive abilities.
• Unexplained pain.
• Decreased alertness.

Can a horse fully recover from EPM?

How do you know if your horse has EPM?

SYMPTOMS

• Ataxia (incoordination), spasticity (stiff, stilted movements), abnormal gait or lameness;
• Incoordination and weakness, which worsens when going up or down slopes or when head is elevated;

What are some horse diseases and sicknesses?

A Guide To Common Horse Diseases Colic Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) Equine Arthritis Laminitis Equine Encephalomyelitis West Nile Virus Potomac Horse Fever Azoturia Botulism

Are neurological diseases contagious?

While most causes of neurological disease in the horse are not contagious, those that are can result in widespread exposure before agent identification. A primary perimeter should be immediately established under the following conditions:

What are neurological problems?

Neurological disorders are disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscles. Many such disorders reduce the efficiency of movement as well as the ability to speak clearly. The speech difficulties that result from neurological disorders thus depend upon the extent of the disorder,…