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Feeding Practices and Techniques to Manage Choke in Horses

Feeding Practices and Techniques to Manage Choke in Horses

What Is Choke in Horses? 

Choke in horses, medically referred to as oesophageal obstruction, occurs when there is a blockage in the horse’s oesophagus (not the windpipe, which leads to the lungs). Horses are unable to vomit, so when food or another substance gets stuck, it can lead to significant distress and potential complications if not resolved promptly. Most commonly, choke is caused by partially chewed or dry feed becoming lodged in the oesophagus. In some cases, it may be linked to tumours, scar tissue (fibrosis), or injuries to the throat region. 

 Signs and Symptoms of Choke in Horses 

 Recognising the symptoms of choke early is essential for your horse’s safety. Common signs include: 

  •  Coughing, gagging, or retching 
  •  Discharge of saliva, mucus, or food from the nostrils and mouth 
  •  Arching of the neck and repeated attempts to swallow 
  •  Visible or palpable swelling on the side of the neck 
  •  Distress or panic, especially if the blockage persists 
  •  Reduced appetite or reluctance to eat, particularly after a recent episode 
 In older horses, choke is often related to dental issues that prevent proper chewing, resulting in large, dry feed particles being swallowed. 

 What to Do If Your Horse Has Choke 

 In mild cases, the horse’s own saliva may help dislodge the obstruction, allowing it to pass naturally. However, veterinary attention is often required, especially if the symptoms persist or worsen. Veterinary treatment options may include: Sedation to relax the oesophagus and reduce stress Use of a stomach tube to manually dislodge or flush the blockage using water In severe or prolonged cases, anaesthesia may be necessary for safe removal 

 Aftercare 

 Once the blockage is cleared, it's important to feed only soft, wet feeds (such as soaked copra or wet grass) for several days to prevent further irritation or recurrence. The oesophagus may be inflamed or damaged, making it vulnerable to secondary choke episodes. 

 What Causes Choke in Horses? 

 Choke is typically caused by feeding practices or physical conditions that interfere with chewing or swallowing. Common causes include: 

1. Dry, Unsoaked Feed 

 Feeds like dry pellets, cubes, or grain can swell in the oesophagus or become lodged, especially if the horse isn’t well hydrated or is eating quickly. 

2. Dental Issues 

 Worn, broken, or misaligned teeth can make it difficult for horses to properly chew, increasing the risk of choke—particularly in older horses. 

3. Rapid Eating (Bolting) 

 Horses that gorge or bolt their feed may swallow large chunks of unchewed food. This behaviour is more common in horses that feel stressed or threatened when feeding around others. 

4. Feeding Tired or Exhausted Horses 

 After intense exercise, some horses may not chew properly. Feeding a hot or fatigued horse dry feed increases the risk of choke. 

How to Manage Choke in Horses 

Prevention is the best approach to managing choke-prone horses. Try the following strategies: 

  • Avoid feeding dry, hard feeds. Always soak pellets or cubes before feeding 
  • Isolate horses that are prone to choking to reduce feed-related stress 
  • Feed smaller, more frequent meals rather than one or two large ones 
  • Place a large, smooth object in the feed bin to slow down fast eaters 
  • Maintain regular dental checks to ensure proper chewing function 
  • Monitor for oral injuries (mouth, tongue, or cheek), which can reduce chewing efficiency 

How Diet Can Help Prevent Choke 

Feeding soft, moist or soaked feeds is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of choke. 

 Why CoolStance Copra Meal Is Ideal 

 Copra meal (coconut meal) is an excellent choice for horses prone to choke. It contains both soluble and insoluble fibre. When soaked, the soluble fibre swells up to 3–5 times its original volume, forming a soft, mash-like consistency that’s: 

  •  Easy to chew and swallow 
  •  Gentle on sensitive or injured throats 
  •  Beneficial for older horses or those with dental issues 
  •  Slower to eat, which helps reduce bolting 
 Soaked copra meal is not only nutrient-rich but also hydrating is an ideal feed base for managing choke-prone horses. 

 Summary: Managing Choke in Horses 

 Choke is a common but preventable condition. With the right feeding techniques, proper dental care, and thoughtful management, you can significantly reduce the risk of oesophageal obstruction. If your horse has choked before or is showing signs of being prone to it, consult your vet or equine nutritionist. 

Products like soaked copra meal and calm feeding environments can make a major difference in preventing future episodes.

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