Diarrhoea in horses is a problem every owner will encounter sooner or later. Although it sometimes results from a change in feed or temporary stress, it can also signal more serious health problems. If diarrhoea is neglected, your horse can quickly become dehydrated, lose valuable electrolytes and weaken. Prolonged digestive problems reduce condition and, in extreme cases, can threaten health and even life.
Why is diarrhoea so dangerous? Your horse loses valuable nutrients and electrolytes in watery droppings. Horses with chronic diarrhoea lose weight, become lethargic and are more susceptible to infections. Identifying the causes promptly and taking appropriate action is very important.
What can cause diarrhoea in horses?
Diarrhoea can have many causes, from minor issues such as stress or dietary changes to serious diseases requiring veterinary intervention. What are the most common causes?
1. Internal parasites
Internal parasites are among the most common causes of chronic diarrhoea in horses. Horses may carry parasites such as:
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Roundworms, which damage the intestinal lining, causing digestive problems, weakness and diarrhoea.
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Tapeworms, which can cause intestinal obstruction, leading to abdominal pain, weight loss and nutrient deficiencies.
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Strongylus vulgaris, which causes severe digestive inflammation; its larvae can damage intestinal blood vessels, risking serious complications.
What does treatment involve?
A horse infected with parasites may suffer not only diarrhoea but also weight loss, weakness, a dull coat and poor condition. Worm your horse regularly and test droppings to protect digestive health. After worming, be sure to give probiotics, such as TRM Synbiovit, to help restore the gut flora.
2. Sand accumulation in the gut
Your horse may accidentally swallow small amounts of sand when eating feed from the ground or grazing on sandy areas. Sand accumulating in the intestines irritates the lining, causes inflammation and can lead to chronic diarrhoea.
Signs of sand accumulation in the gut:
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chronic diarrhoea,
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weight loss,
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recurrent colic.
To check whether your horse has a problem with accumulated sand, carry out a simple test. Take a sample of droppings, put it in a jar of water and leave it for a few hours. If sand collects at the bottom, take appropriate action to prevent further health problems.
What does treatment involve?
To help your horse, give psyllium, which supports the removal of accumulated sand from the intestines. Support the gut microbiota with suitable supplements, such as NAF Biotics, which promote digestion and digestive health.
3. Gastric ulcers
Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is a common problem that can cause digestive disturbances, including diarrhoea. Ulcers usually develop because of excess stomach acid, stress and an unsuitable diet.
Signs of EGUS:
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reduced appetite,
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irritability,
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weight loss,
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behavioural changes, such as aggression when being saddled.
What does treatment involve?
Look after your horse's diet, increase fibre, reduce stress and use supplements supporting the stomach lining. This helps treat ulcers and prevent recurrence.
4. Salmonellosis
Diarrhoea may indicate infection with Salmonella bacteria, which are dangerous and spread easily to other horses. Infection weakens the body, leads to dehydration and serious digestive problems, so prompt diagnosis and treatment are very important.
How can it be prevented?
Disinfect the stable regularly, check feed quality and quickly isolate sick horses. These actions reduce the risk of infection spreading.
Malabsorption syndrome
Some horses struggle to absorb nutrients, leading to chronic diarrhoea and weight loss. Blood and faecal tests can help identify the cause. Treatment mainly involves dietary changes and supplements supporting digestion.
How can you prevent diarrhoea in your horse?
To help your horse avoid digestive problems, pay attention to a few important things. Have droppings and blood tested regularly: this helps detect parasites or other abnormalities before the condition worsens. Feed good-quality, fibre-rich hay to support normal digestion. Too much cereal and sugar can be harmful, so moderation is best. Do not forget water. Your horse should always have access to it, particularly in hot weather and after exercise, as dehydration worsens digestive problems. Introduce new feeds gradually, as sudden changes can cause diarrhoea. Keep the stable and paddock clean too. Regular cleaning and avoiding feeding from the ground reduce the risk of infection and parasites.
You can also support your horse's gut microbiota by regularly giving probiotics such as TRM Synbiovit. They help maintain bacterial balance in the digestive tract and support healthy digestion.
What should you do when your horse has diarrhoea?
There is no need to panic, but do not dismiss the problem either. Above all, ensure your horse drinks plenty of fresh water, as dehydration can quickly worsen their condition. Probiotics and electrolytes can also help restore the gut microbiota and support recovery. Activated charcoal may also be useful: it acts like a sponge, absorbing toxins and helping stop diarrhoea. However, if the problem lasts longer than two days and your horse becomes dull, lethargic and loses their appetite, do not delay: contact your vet, as more specialist help may be needed.
Diarrhoea in horses can result from minor disturbances or serious diseases. It is a sign you should not ignore. A suitable diet, regular checks and digestive support, such as probiotics, help prevent many problems. Look after your horse to avoid dangerous complications.
