EPM - or equine protozoal myeloencephalitis - is one of the more serious illnesses that affects horses. For those who are unaware, it's caused by a harmful type of protozoa known as Sarcosystic neurona. If you consider yourself a loving pet owner, it would make sense to learn about EPM. Where should one start, though, you may wonder? For those who would like to become more aware of this condition, keep the following details in mind.
The way that EPM spreads is by infected opossums. They are able to pass along the condition by physical contact or by contamination of a horse's food and water supply. According to companies such as Assisi Animal Health, EPM focuses on the central nervous system, meaning that it can create a series of health-related problems down the road. As a matter of fact, the following symptoms are worth keeping an eye out for, as a concerned pet owner.
There are quite a few symptoms that a horse with EPM will show. Weakness in the muscles is among the most common, which can be seen on the outside as well. Atrophy will set in and this often leads to unsteadiness or downright collapsing with horses. What this means is that it's important to know how to treat EPM. For those who are curious to know what treatment entails, the following information is worth keeping in mind.
In order to find treatment for EPM, it's in your best interest to consult your local veterinarian, as there are various drugs that can be used. Some are used in order to decrease symptoms, while others are designed for more thorough treatment. Your vet might also recommend electromagnetic treatment for horses in order to help keep discomfort down. While this is a great method to undertake, you should inquire about it further.
One of the most unfortunate things about EPM is that, to most people, it can be easily mistaken for another condition entirely. This is why it's in the best interests of pet owners across the board to be wary of symptoms that develop over the course of time. By doing so, you will be able to determine if the problem is specifically rooted in EPM. The more that you know about your horse's condition, the easier it'll be to find treatment.
The way that EPM spreads is by infected opossums. They are able to pass along the condition by physical contact or by contamination of a horse's food and water supply. According to companies such as Assisi Animal Health, EPM focuses on the central nervous system, meaning that it can create a series of health-related problems down the road. As a matter of fact, the following symptoms are worth keeping an eye out for, as a concerned pet owner.
There are quite a few symptoms that a horse with EPM will show. Weakness in the muscles is among the most common, which can be seen on the outside as well. Atrophy will set in and this often leads to unsteadiness or downright collapsing with horses. What this means is that it's important to know how to treat EPM. For those who are curious to know what treatment entails, the following information is worth keeping in mind.
In order to find treatment for EPM, it's in your best interest to consult your local veterinarian, as there are various drugs that can be used. Some are used in order to decrease symptoms, while others are designed for more thorough treatment. Your vet might also recommend electromagnetic treatment for horses in order to help keep discomfort down. While this is a great method to undertake, you should inquire about it further.
One of the most unfortunate things about EPM is that, to most people, it can be easily mistaken for another condition entirely. This is why it's in the best interests of pet owners across the board to be wary of symptoms that develop over the course of time. By doing so, you will be able to determine if the problem is specifically rooted in EPM. The more that you know about your horse's condition, the easier it'll be to find treatment.
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