Choke and Likelihood of Happening Again

[NWalker]

My poor horse had choke yesterday (in the horsebox on our way somewhere). Very distressing and upsetting for him (and me!).

Usually I double net all his hay because he eats so quickly but (stupidly!) as he's not a great traveller, I didn't double net it, gave him some fine meadow hay as a treat and to take his mind off travelling. Obviously he ate it too fast and he got choke.

He's seems to be fine now but what are the chances of him having choke again. As he's had it once is he now predisposed to having choke. Obviously won't make the same mistake again with haynet and hay. Vet said I would now have to soak all his hay and feeds. Would steaming hay have the same effect. Thank you!

 

[mattilda]

My old mare had choke last Saturday evening. She had it once before....about 10 years ago!! I never soak her hay but do dampen her feed although not a lot. I understand some horses are more prone to choke than others but wouldn''t worry too much about your lad. I would just keep doing what you normally do. Also I wouldn't call the vet unless it hasn't cleared by itself after an hour.

 

[NWalker]

I think it was just the hay yesterday. He did eventually have to be sedated and tubed because it wasn't clearing. Never seen as horse with choke before it was horrible because he was so distressed. Thank you.

 

[Dolcé]

we have several that suffer from mild choke if we are not careful with their feeds but I had my first one that needed vet a couple of weeks ago because I couldn't clear it in the usual way. I decided to give the 4 in the colts paddock a (very) small feed because they have very little to graze, I think the equibeet was a little too dry from the top of the bin and one of them that has never suffered before had a bout. He could have only eaten about one mouthful judging by what was left in the bucket! It had cleared by time the vet arrived but she told me his throat may be a bit sore for a few days and just to leave him on the grass with no feed or hay until it was better. They are now having hay daily and he is absolutely fine so I wouldn't worry about it too much, just stick to your double netting! If he hasn't choked on hard feed before then he is unlikely to start just because of this. Apparently sugar beet not being wet enough is a major cause, I always thought it was the grass nuts so have taken note of that ans will make sure I stir it again before using in future. Hope he is ok now!