Old Horse with twitching problem. Please Help!?

Question

I just went out to feed my Old Mare named Buttercup and I noticed on her flank she was twitching really bad. There wasn't any flies and it had just rained. It's sort of hard to explain what if felt like, but when I placed my hand there on her flank I could feel like blood pumping! It sorta scares me. She's eating fine and acting normal, but I would like to know what is going on! Thank you for all your answers. God bless!

zephania666 · Accepted Answer

Sounds like the thumps.  Otherwise known as synchronous diaphragmatic flutter (SDF).  This is like hiccups, in that the diaphragm is having spasms.  In the horse, the spasms are tied to the heart beat - when the heart beats, the diaphragm thumps.

I've heard of horses having this without anything wrong, but usually it's a sign of dehydration or is exercise induced.

Here's an article:
	
http://www.thehorse.com/TopicSearch/Default.aspx?n=thumps&nID=7&ID=107

It can also be caused by low calcium levels, and may be treated with iv calcium.  Here's another link: 
 
http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:IWV752dXRbwJ:www.justanswer.com/horse-health/2knnp-causes-thumps-horses-does-long-time.html+the+thumps+in+horses&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us&client=firefox-a

You might consider calling your vet for some free phone advice.

Anonymous · Answer

It COULD be that there were flies that you didn't see. The flank is a VERY sensitive area and if you put your hand up to it, it WILL twitch.

Anonymous · Answer

it is not photic head shaking, they try this while a fly lands on their head and bothers them or while purely being playful. no longer something to be concerned approximately, you've a vet verify her out in case you're that apprehensive approximately it nevertheless.

? · Answer

Could be the thumps, keep her under observation and if it continues or she seems unwell consult the vet right away.

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Old Horse with twitching problem. Please Help!?

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