Horses, when given the chance, may have a snack on whatever looks tasty! In fact, some horses have been known to eat the feed of other animals including chickens. But what happens if your horse eats chicken feed?
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If your horse has recently been at the chicken feed, then you’ve come to the right place.
Chicken Feed is Dangerous for Horses
The fact is that chicken feed is dangerous for horses. So, if your horse has eaten some chicken feed, then you should call the vet immediately.
Chicken feed can cause digestive issues in horses, which includes colic. In addition, chicken feed may contain additives that are toxic for horses, or they can cause severe diarrhea and even heart damage. If your horse has eaten chicken feed, then prompt medical care can keep him from becoming seriously ill.
Even if your horse seems to be OK, it’s best to call the vet right away. For one thing, it’s a curtesy to let the vet know that your horse may have a problem after eating chicken feed. Plus, the vet can give you advice on what you can do and what symptoms to watch for.
It’s always a good idea to have a few facts put together for the vet before you call. So, try to gather as much of the following information as possible before making the call:
- About how long ago did your horse eat the chicken feed?
- How much chicken feed did your horse eat?
- Was the chicken feed medicated?
- What other ingredients were in the feed?
- What are your horse’s current vital signs (this will include the pulse, respiratory rate and temperature)?
The answers to these questions will give your vet the information they need. From this, they may be able to give you advice on what to do, as well as symptoms to watch for, and more.
Treating a Horse Who Has Eaten Chicken Feed
The vet may want to give your horse activated charcoal through a nasogastric tube. This can help to keep your horse’s digestive tract from absorbing the chicken feed. Vets may also treat horses with laxatives, mineral oil, fluids and anti-inflammatories.
The key here is prompt medical treatment. Horses that receive care soon after eating chicken feed have an excellent prognosis.
In addition, prevention is the best way to keep your horse from eating chicken feed. Be sure all feed is stored properly and in containers that horses aren’t able to open. On other hand, if a horse gets loose and eats chicken feed, there’s not much else you can do, other than calling the vet right away.
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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