Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis is a serious neurological disease caused by protozoal parasites that causes progressive neurological deficits and significant welfare impacts.
EPM causes progressive neurological deterioration that significantly impacts both the welfare and the use of affected horses. Horses with EPM experience proprioceptive deficits that make walking, turning and standing on uneven surfaces difficult and frightening. Advanced cases are unable to maintain balance, fall frequently, and experience the distress and pain of repeated traumatic falls. The anxiety associated with neurological dysfunction in horses is significant - these are flight animals who depend on mobility for their survival instinct. Early treatment offers good prognosis, making rapid recognition of early signs a welfare priority.