Sometimes, the older they are, the less sensible they become.
This week we were called out to an emergency involving four very naughty horses who had managed to break out of their barn overnight. Instead of heading straight back to the field, they decided to help themselves to a rather impressive buffet of rolled corn, fodder beet and carrots.
Their owner discovered them early the following morning, standing in the field rather than in their usual overnight accommodation. It didn’t take long to realise they’d been up to some serious high jinks once the yard was checked.
Why Grain Overload Is So Serious
When horses gain access to feed they should not be eating …….. especially in large quantities …….the consequences can be severe. Grain overload can lead to:
- Colic
- Severe disruption of the gut bacteria (diarrhoea)
- Endotoxic laminitis, which can be life-threatening
Horses are not designed to digest large amounts of starch quickly. When excess grain passes into the hindgut, it disrupts the normal bacterial population, leading to acid production and toxin release. These toxins can enter the bloodstream and trigger widespread inflammation throughout the body.
What Happens During an Emergency Vet Visit?
The primary aim of a veterinary visit in these situations is to remove as much feed as possible from the stomach and reduce the absorption of harmful toxins.
Horses cannot vomit — the sphincter at the top of the stomach is extremely strong and prevents this. This means that once feed has been consumed, it can only continue through the digestive tract.
Each of the four culprits was sedated individually, and their stomachs were lavaged (washed out) using copious amounts of water. They were also treated with:
- Anti-endotoxic pain relief
- Activated charcoal to help bind toxins and reduce absorption
- Careful monitoring to reduce the risk of endotoxaemic laminitis
A Very Lucky Outcome
Thankfully, thanks to early discovery and prompt treatment, all four horses are doing very well and are back to behaving themselves — at least for now.
They were extremely lucky. Grain overload cases can deteriorate rapidly, and early intervention plays a crucial role in achieving a positive outcome.
Why Timing Is Everything
Time is of the essence in cases of grain overload. Many commonly used feeds — particularly those that require soaking — can cause significant problems if eaten dry and in large quantities.
Even if a horse appears comfortable initially, serious complications can develop hours later. Acting quickly can significantly reduce the severity of illness and the risk of long-term damage.
When in Doubt, Call Your Vet
If you ever suspect your horse has broken into feed, the best thing you can do is contact your vet immediately. Early treatment gives your horse the best possible chance of recovery and can help prevent devastating complications.
If you have any concerns or would like advice on feed management and prevention, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Little Rock Equine Vets Ltd on 01782 898102