In order to determine whether your horse may be sick, it is important to know what your horse's normal values are. That way, you (or your da) can more quickly identify an abnormality, as well as its severity!
We have all been taught the "averages" for horses (and foals), e.g., 37.5 degrees in temperature and 8-10 breaths per minute at rest.
However, no two horses are alike, and there can be large individual differences! So it is important to know the average of your individual horse(s).
A useful tool for this is of course the thermometer, but a simple stethoscope is also very handy, for e.g. measuring the heart rate!
Tip from Equinics:
During one week, measure the temperature, respiration and heart rate of your horse(s) every day, at the same time of day, when your horse is calm and relaxed (not directly after work) and with as equal conditions as possible: after this, calculate the average and write them down ;-) You will then have a reasonable idea of your horse's baseline values.
Check your horse's baseline values regularly, and if you are in doubt whether something is wrong with your horse, check (at least) temperature, heart rate and respiration, so that you can tell your DA if necessary.
Temperature (measured rectally)
Horses 37.5°C - 38.2°C
Foals (38.5 -39.5 if just born)
Young foals 37.5-38.5°C.
Respirations per minute
At rest 8-14 (Inhalation and exhalation count together as one breath).
Heart rate at rest
Horse 25-45
Foal 48-76
Newborn foals 80-100
Note: these are the 'textbook' averages, each horse has its own individual set! 😉
Of course, at Equinis you can also find all kinds of useful measuring tools (such as thermometers, heart rate monitors and stethoscope) Look around our site, and feel free to call or email us if you can't find something, or if you want more info on something!
Remember: This InfoBlog is based on our (the people behind Equinics) personal experience, both in terms of the problems, products, therapies and gadgets discussed, but also in terms of our equine experience in general. 😃 We would like to emphasize, that we believe you should always ask your veterinarian for advice, if your horse needs help.😊