Acute post-treatment enterocolitis in 13 horses treated in a Norwegian surgical ward

Abstract

Case histories, results of laboratory analyses, treatment regimens and outcome are described for 13 horses that developed acute enterocolitis after various surgical treatments. Twelve of the 13 horses had been cast in lateral recumbency, and 10 of those 12 had received general anesthesia. Eleven horses had been treated with antimicrobial drugs. Most horses (11) developed diarrhea 2 days after initiation of treatment, with a variation from 1 to 5 days. The most apparent symptoms were fever, up to 40.5 degrees C, elevated heart rate, discoloration of mucous membranes, and diarrhea. Dehydration, acidosis and leukopenia were marked at the time clinical signs occurred. Packed cell volume and total serum protein values were elevated. Therapy was directed toward replacement of fluid losses, restoration of acid-base balance, and counteraction of inflammation. Seven horses (54%) died or were euthanized. At necropsy, pathological changes showed large variations between individuals. Salmonella spp. were not isolated from any of the horses, and no common causative agent was identified. Preventive efforts to avoid post-treatment enterocolitis have been taken with regard to preoperative routines, premedication and anesthesia, with apparent success.