Equine Grass Sickness: Fatal Neuropathy Welfare

Key Welfare Facts

Equine grass sickness (EGS) is a devastating neurological condition affecting the autonomic nervous system of horses.
The disease is caused by Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin type C produced in gut, affecting the enteric nervous system.
Acute forms cause rapid total gut dysfunction with severe abdominal pain and collapse, requiring humane euthanasia.
Chronic cases develop progressive dysphagia, weight loss, and sweating requiring dedicated intensive nursing care.
The survival rate for chronic cases with excellent intensive care can reach 40-50% in specialist centres.
Soil and pasture management including lime application may reduce disease risk on previously affected premises.

Welfare Assessment

EGS causes severe suffering in acute cases where euthanasia is the welfare-appropriate and humane decision. Chronic cases with dedicated care have reasonable survival prospects. Preventive measures at previously affected premises reduce risk for future horses.

What You Can Do

Accept that acute EGS cases warrant prompt euthanasia as the welfare-appropriate decision
Seek specialist referral for chronic EGS cases where intensive nursing care can be provided
Implement soil management recommendations including lime application on previously affected pastures
Record EGS cases through national surveillance to support epidemiological investigation and risk factor research