In some cases, it can be difficult to know whether to call your horse’s veterinarian. Not only are vet bills expensive, but most horse vets are busy people. If you don’t call though, you can risk the condition worsening. These situations can be very troubling to horse owners.

Disclaimer, it’s always best to call your vet if you’re unsure of what to do. They will be able to offer their best opinion.

Call Your Vet

These situations are considered horse emergencies. Call your vet immediately!

• Deep cuts, wounds, or lacerations
• Eye injuries (swelling, tearing, cloudiness, etc.)
• Colic
• A fever above 103°F
• Rapid or labored breathing
• Choke
• Signs of laminitis (heat and swelling in hooves, pounding digital pulse, lame)
• Neurological signs

These situations will also require vet attention. They may or may not be emergencies.

• Lethargic
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Nasal discharge
• Lameness
• Changes in behavior

These are just a few of the many things that can go wrong with horses. Ultimately, you’ll have to use your best judgement. Your vet should be available for a phone call to determine if the situation is a true emergency.

It’s important to develop a good relationship with your equine veterinarian. You should also have an emergency vet in your contacts.