27 August 2008 17:08
Blood tests showed my five-year-old cob mare was suffering from a chronic infection and anaemia after becoming lethargic, though she seemed well otherwise. She was treated with a supplement, tonics and antibiotics, but a second blood test revealed a viral infection. I’m now waiting on a third test, so what can I do to help her get better?
Answer
By Your Horse
Vet Mark Lingard replies:
Just as with humans, viral problems in horses can persist and cause ‘ill-thrift’ – poor general health – for an extended time. It’s difficult to pinpoint which virus is causing the problem, especially in a chronic case. One thing your vet can perform is serology of the blood. This involves looking for a rise in antibodies to specific viruses. However, whether this would result in any alteration of her treatment is open to doubt.
There are very few anti-viral medicines available so we’re left with supplementary treatments like vitamins. Rest is important, as is lack of stress. Above all, patience is a virtue when waiting for a viral infection to improve.