One of the hardest judgement calls for any horse owner is deciding whether a situation warrants veterinary attention. Delaying a necessary call can worsen outcomes. Calling early can prevent escalation, reduce suffering, and often lower long-term cost.
The most responsible approach is simple:
When in doubt, call.
This guide outlines clear warning signs that require veterinary advice — and explains why hesitation can be dangerous.
The Golden Rule: Changes From Normal Matter
Before looking at specific conditions, remember:
- A sudden deviation from your horse’s normal behaviour, appetite, movement, or demeanour is always significant
- Even subtle changes can indicate developing illness
- Trust patterns, not assumptions
Knowing your horse’s normal baseline is your greatest diagnostic tool.
Immediate Veterinary Call Required
These signs warrant urgent contact with your vet.
1. Signs of Colic
Call immediately if your horse shows:
- Repeated rolling
- Violent thrashing
- Persistent flank watching
- Elevated heart rate (over 50 bpm)
- No droppings
- Heavy sweating without exercise
Colic can deteriorate rapidly — time is critical.
2. Non-Weight-Bearing Lameness
If a horse refuses to bear weight on a limb:
- Do not delay
- Confine safely
- Call your vet
While abscesses are common, fractures and serious injuries must be ruled out. Severe lameness is never a “wait and see” situation.
3. Eye Injuries
Eye problems are emergencies.
Call your vet if you notice:
- Squinting
- Excess tearing
- Swelling
- Cloudiness
- Sensitivity to light
Eye ulcers can worsen within hours — early treatment protects vision.
4. Severe Wounds
Call immediately for wounds that:
- Bleed heavily
- Involve joints
- Expose underlying tissue
- Are deep or gaping
- Occur near tendon sheaths
Joint infections can develop quickly — never delay assessment of deep wounds.
5. High Temperature
- A temperature above 38.5°C requires close monitoring
- Above 39°C, contact your vet
Fever may indicate viral or bacterial infection or systemic inflammation, especially if combined with lethargy or nasal discharge.
6. Breathing Difficulties
Call immediately if your horse shows:
- Laboured breathing
- Flared nostrils at rest
- Excessive coughing
- Blue or pale gums
- Extended neck posture
Respiratory distress can escalate quickly.
7. Neurological Signs
Urgent signs include:
- Stumbling or loss of coordination
- Head pressing
- Circling
- Sudden collapse
- Seizures
Neurological symptoms require immediate professional evaluation.
Situations That Require Prompt (But Not Always Emergency) Advice
1. Persistent Lameness
Seek veterinary evaluation if lameness:
- Lasts more than 48 hours
- Worsens gradually
- Does not respond to rest
Early intervention prevents chronic issues.
2. Sudden Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss may indicate:
- Dental problems
- Parasites
- Chronic infection
- Metabolic disease
Weight change without explanation should be investigated.
3. Persistent Diarrhoea
Loose droppings lasting beyond 24–48 hours warrant discussion due to risks such as:
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Colitis
4. Swelling That Is Hot or Painful
While mild filling may resolve, swelling that is:
- Warm
- Painful
- Increasing
- Associated with lameness
Requires assessment.
5. Behaviour Changes
Sudden changes in:
- Temperament
- Performance
- Willingness to work
- Appetite
Often reflect underlying discomfort or illness — behaviour is frequently the earliest warning sign.
When Monitoring May Be Appropriate
Minor issues may be monitored briefly if:
- The horse is bright and alert
- Eating normally
- Vital signs are within normal range
- No severe pain is present
However, if unsure — consult your vet. Most practices are happy to advise over the phone.
Why Early Calls Often Reduce Costs
Owners sometimes delay calling due to cost concerns, but early intervention is usually more economical:
- Early colic treatment is cheaper than surgery
- Early wound care prevents infection complications
- Early lameness treatment avoids prolonged rehabilitation
Prompt action protects both welfare and finances.
Keep Emergency Information Ready
Every owner should have:
- Vet number saved in phone
- Yard location details accessible
- Horse insurance information ready
- Knowledge of basic vital signs
- A transport access plan
Preparation reduces delays during emergencies.
The Core Principle
Call your vet if your horse:
- Is in significant pain
- Has abnormal vital signs
- Stops eating
- Shows neurological signs
- Suffers deep wounds
- Struggles to breathe
You are not overreacting — you are protecting welfare.
Good horsemanship includes knowing when a situation is beyond routine management.
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Knowledge Hub: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/knowledge-hub/
Category: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/category/horse-health/
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