Horse owners are always on the lookout for ways to keep their equine companions healthy and happy. One of the dreaded diseases that can strike horses is EPM or equine protozoal myeloencephalitis. In this article, we'll delve into the world of EPM and discuss how horses contract this potentially devastating illness. By understanding the cause and prevention methods, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your beloved horse.
How Does A Horse Contract Epm Table of Contents
What is Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM)?
Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis, or EPM, is a neurological disease affecting horses. It is caused by the protozoan parasite Sarcocystis neurona. EPM can result in severe neurological damage to the horse's brain, spinal cord, and nerves, which may lead to difficulty walking, muscle atrophy, loss of balance, and other debilitating symptoms.
How Do Horses Contract EPM?
EPM is primarily spread through the consumption of infected material. In most cases, horses contract the EPM-causing parasite by ingesting feed or water contaminated with opossum feces, which contain the infectious sporocysts.
Sarcocystis neurona requires an intermediate host, typically a small mammal, to complete its lifecycle. The opossum then feeds on this infected host and in turn, carries and spreads the parasite through its feces.
While opossums are the primary culprit, birds and rodents can also act as transport hosts, moving the sporocysts to new locations without becoming infected themselves.
Factors That Increase the Risk of EPM Infection
While the presence of opossums in a horse's environment increases the risk of exposure to EPM, other factors can also contribute to the likelihood of infection:
- Stress: Horses exposed to a high level of stress, such as extensive training, traveling, or other illnesses, may have a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to contracting EPM.
- Age: Younger horses, particularly those under the age of 5, are more likely to contract EPM due to their immature immune systems.
- Geographical Location: EPM is more prevalent in certain areas, such as the eastern and southern United States, where opossum populations are larger.
Preventing EPM in Horses
While EPM can potentially cause devastating symptoms in horses, there are several steps that horse owners can take to help minimize the risk of infection:
- Control Wildlife: Limit access to horse feed and water sources by keeping them covered and secured. Clean up any spilled feed promptly to reduce the attractiveness of the area to wildlife.
- Good Hygiene Practices: Maintain a clean and sanitary living environment for your horse. Regularly clean water troughs, feed buckets, stalls, and pastures.
- Stress Reduction: Keep your horse's stress levels to a minimum by providing a consistent routine and avoiding sudden changes in their environment.
- Regular Health Checks: Monitor your horse's health closely and consult with a veterinarian if you suspect any issues, as early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the successful management of EPM.
How Does A Horse Contract Epm? Example:
Imagine you own a young horse named Daisy who lives in a stable and spends her days grazing in a nearby pasture. You've noticed that there have been several opossum sightings on your property recently.
To protect Daisy from contracting EPM, you make several changes. First, you secure all feed storage and water sources to prevent opossums from accessing them. You also keep the area clean, regularly clearing away any spilled feed. In addition, you establish a consistent routine for Daisy, minimizing her stress levels and keeping a close eye on her overall health.
Now that you understand how horses can contract EPM and ways to prevent it, you're one step closer to being a well-informed and proactive horse owner. Knowledge is power, and by implementing the necessary prevention methods, you're doing your part in keeping your equine companion healthy and happy. Share this article with fellow horse lovers and explore our other guides on How to Own a Horse to further your equine knowledge and horse care skills.
