Intestinal Bacterial Infections in Horses

Endotoxemia

The presence of endotoxins in the blood is referred to as Endotoxemia. These toxins are generally due to the presence of certain types of bacteria in the horse's gut. If not treated promptly and quickly, Endotoxemia can lead to shock, coma, or even death.

Symptoms

As previously stated, Endotoxemia may lead to coma or shock, more specifically endotoxic shock. The horse may also be excessively thirsty and abnormally slurp or suck water through its lips while drinking. Some other symptoms for this condition include:

• Depression
• Dehydration
• Acute diarrhea
• A rise in its pulse rate (i.e., in excess of 80 beats per minute)
• Respiratory congestion (especially seen in the mucous membranes)
• Colic-like symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, bloating, gas)

As the disease progresses the horse may develop laminitis, a hoof and foot disease that causes the hoof wall and hoof to separate.

Cause

The toxins given off by Gram-negative bacteria (or bacteria that do not retain a crystal violet dye during a common staining exam) are the cause for Endotoxemia in horses. Among them, E. coli, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas are common forms of Gram-negative bacteria. Some other risk factors for Endotoxemia include:

• Damage to the mucous barrier in the intestines
• Inflammation of the small intestine
• Twisted gut
• Colitis (a severe affliction brought on by stress)
• Acute metritis (a sexually transmitted disease)

Diagnosis

If your horse is displaying the symptoms listed above, the veterinarian may run a variety of tests, including a Gram stain test to determine if there is bacteria in the animal's blood. If bacteria is found, the test will also identify the type of bacterium. Furthermore, be prepared to give the veterinarian information regarding environmental or behavioral changes such as a change in diet or the horse's attitude towards food.