Question

List and briefly describe 5 indicators of equine health in a

bulleted list. At least 3 should be vital signs. In your
description, explain the difference between normal and abnormal for
these indicators of health.

Answer 1

The 5 indicators of equine health are:

1. Respiration
2. Temperature
3. Heart Rate
4. Appetite
5. Capillary Refill Time

Step-by-step explanation:

• The normal respiration rate for a horse is 8-16 breaths per minute. This can increase to 120 while exercising or running. A horse's heart rate to respiration rate is 4:1. If the respiration rate exceeds the normal in absence of exercise, the horse could be ill or injured.

• The normal body temperature for a horse is 99.5˚F to 101.5˚F; its rise to 102˚F indicates mild fever, to 104˚F moderate and to 106˚F high grade fever. During shock,a horse exhibits low body temperature.
• Adult horses have a heart rate of about 28 to 40 beats per minute; a foal has about 80 to 120 beats per minute. During strenuous activity, it can increase to 240 to 250 beats per minute. A heart rate of 80 to 120 for a long period indicates illness.
• Appetite is one of the prime indicators of horse health, particularly in the case of infections such as West Nile and influenza. A horse that refuses to eat must be examined for illness or injury.
• The normal capillary refill time for a healthy horse is 3 to 5 seconds. If the refill time exceed this range, then the horse should be examined.