What to do with a horse that has flounder?

Answer 1

The condition is called "founder." You need to have a vet examine the horse. In some cases, the animal can recover. I sincerely hope this is the case with your horse. This is a very serious condition and a Vet should always be contaced. It is very painful and the faster you can start treatment the better. It could determine if the horse will recover or not. Dont wait days to contact the vet... I am talking hours. I do agree with everything said above, definetly. But, also, there are some things that you can do on your own before the vet arrives. (Still make sure you call the vet- your horse's life could depend upon that). But, when my pony Ziggy foundered for the second time, the vet told us to have him stand with his foundering feet in a bucket of ice water. (If this is not possible, you can use snow from outside mixed in with water). Make sure he or she is in the bucket for at least an hour (unless the vert says otherwise). Make sure you stay with your horse as long as possible, and, if possible, stay with him all night. Give your horse hay in a hay net- if he eats, this is a good sign. Give your horse hay and water within his reach- he won't want to move. If your horse runs out of hay or water, good- his spirits are high enough to eat and drink, so he is in less pain. If he runs out, bring him some more hay or water. DO NOT FEED GRAIN OR TREATS OR GRASS TO A FOUNDERING HORSE!!!! IT COULD WORSEN HIS CONDITION OR EVEN KILL HIM!!!!