How to Identify and Treat Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis

Nicholas Foster

FREEASKDOCTOR.COM – How to Identify and Treat Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis – Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) is a neurological disease that can be fatal if left untreated. The disease is caused by the protozoan parasite Sarcocystis neurona and is primarily found in horses in North and South America. In this article, we will discuss how to identify and treat EPM in horses.

Identifying EPM

The symptoms of EPM can vary, but some common signs that your horse may have the disease include:

Ataxia or incoordination
Weakness
Muscle wasting
Loss of balance
Head tilt
Seizures
Difficulty swallowing
Lameness or reluctance to move

If you notice any of these symptoms in your horse, you should consult with a veterinarian immediately. EPM can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms can be similar to other neurological diseases, but your veterinarian can perform a series of tests to determine if your horse has EPM.

Treating EPM

If your horse is diagnosed with EPM, there are several treatment options available. The most common treatment for EPM is a combination of drugs, including:

Ponazuril: This drug is commonly used to treat EPM and works by killing the protozoan parasite in the horse’s central nervous system.
Sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine: This combination of drugs is also used to treat EPM and works by blocking the enzyme that the protozoan parasite needs to survive.

Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage and length of treatment based on the severity of your horse’s condition.

In addition to medication, there are several things you can do to help your horse recover from EPM, including:

Rest: Rest is essential for your horse’s recovery. Avoid stressing your horse during treatment and provide a comfortable and quiet environment for them to rest.
Nutritional support: Good nutrition is crucial for your horse’s recovery. Work with your veterinarian to develop a diet that meets your horse’s nutritional needs.
Rehabilitation: Depending on the severity of your horse’s condition, rehabilitation may be necessary to help them regain strength and coordination.

Preventing EPM

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent EPM, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of your horse contracting the disease, including:

Good hygiene: Clean and disinfect your horse’s feed and water buckets regularly.
Reducing exposure: Limit your horse’s exposure to opossums and other wildlife that can carry the protozoan parasite that causes EPM.
Regular veterinary care: Regular veterinary care can help detect EPM early and reduce the risk of severe symptoms.

EPM is a serious disease that can be fatal if left untreated. If you suspect your horse may have EPM, it is important to consult with a veterinarian immediately. With prompt treatment and proper care, horses with EPM can make a full recovery. By taking steps to prevent EPM, you can help protect your horse from this debilitating disease.