Wobbler Syndrome in Growing Horses

Young horses that develop uncoordinated gaits may be suffering from wobbler syndrome. This neurologic disease, also known as cervical stenotic myelopathy, results from compression of the spinal cord caused by malformation in one or more vertebrae in the horse’s neck. The term “wobbler syndrome” is descriptive of an affected horse’s movement, with the hind legs often affected to a greater degree than the forelegs.

While any horse may show signs of wobbler syndrome, it is somewhat more common in Thoroughbreds, American Saddlebreds, Tennessee Walking Horses, and Warmblood breeds than in other horses. Males are affected more often than females, and the average age of onset is less than two years. Nutrition, mineral levels and balance, rapid growth rate, and genetics may be involved as causes of the syndrome.

Diagnosis begins with an examination of the horse, both standing and in motion, to evaluate signs and degree of incoordination. Radiographs can be taken and compared to standard measurements of spaces between vertebrae. Images made with contrasting dye may show areas where the spinal cord is compressed. CT and MRI scans can give additional detail of bone and soft tissue structures.

In mild cases, treatment may include dietary modification to slow the growth rate as well as anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling. Surgery is sometimes indicated to fuse two or more vertebrae, limiting flexion and reducing the impact on the spinal cord. In severely affected horses, euthanasia may be the best option because the horse’s incoordination is a threat to both the horse and its human handlers.

Dietary supplementation with vitamin E is recommended for horses with neurologic problems. Nano-E was developed by Kentucky Equine Research to confer rapid and superior bioavailability of natural-source vitamin E to horses. This form of vitamin E has been proven more effective than synthetic vitamin E preparations.