Post by IH Health on Jul 31, 2009 10:09:22 GMT 1
Shivers/Shivering
What is it?
Shivers is a condition that affects the horses spinal cord and muscles which causes the horse to shake and shiver uncontrollably, most noticeably in the hind legs.
Causes
Unknown. Some believe that it is linked to illness or disease; some believe it is pathological changes in the spinal column.
Symptoms
• Shivering/shaking of the muscles of the hind legs and tail (often bought on when asked to back up)
• Difficulty in backing up
• Hind legs may become suspended at an awkward angle (perhaps linked to Stringhalt)
Treatment
No treatment is currently available for shivers – most horses can be kept in work doing useful jobs but the rider needs to be mindful of the horse being incapable of backing up. The muscles in the hind quarters will eventually become weak. Bute and homeopathic remedies are available and some suggest supplements to increase bone density can help.
Useful websites
[url=http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/horsecare/article.php?aid=58757
]Feeding for Shivering and Stringhalt[/url]
Please post below any information you have on this subject or of your experiences in diagnosis/treatment/aftercare. All information given is for reference only and does not constitute or should replace qualified veterinarian advice.
What is it?
Shivers is a condition that affects the horses spinal cord and muscles which causes the horse to shake and shiver uncontrollably, most noticeably in the hind legs.
Causes
Unknown. Some believe that it is linked to illness or disease; some believe it is pathological changes in the spinal column.
Symptoms
• Shivering/shaking of the muscles of the hind legs and tail (often bought on when asked to back up)
• Difficulty in backing up
• Hind legs may become suspended at an awkward angle (perhaps linked to Stringhalt)
Treatment
No treatment is currently available for shivers – most horses can be kept in work doing useful jobs but the rider needs to be mindful of the horse being incapable of backing up. The muscles in the hind quarters will eventually become weak. Bute and homeopathic remedies are available and some suggest supplements to increase bone density can help.
Useful websites
[url=http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/horsecare/article.php?aid=58757
]Feeding for Shivering and Stringhalt[/url]
Please post below any information you have on this subject or of your experiences in diagnosis/treatment/aftercare. All information given is for reference only and does not constitute or should replace qualified veterinarian advice.