24/11/2025
Choke in horses is an esophageal obstruction, where a blockage in the esophagus prevents food from reaching the stomach. Symptoms include coughing, gagging, and nasal discharge containing saliva and feed. While the horse can still breathe because the trachea is separate from the esophagus, it is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention to prevent complications like pneumonia or esophageal damage.
To prevent choke in horses soak dry feeds before feeding.
Provide regular dental care to ensure proper chewing.
Ensure the horse has constant access to fresh water.
Slow down aggressive/ fast eaters by adding large non-swallowable objects to their feed, using slow feeding nets or feeding multiple smaller meals.
Soak hay to make it easier to chew.