Very Common
Less Common
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Foal or Newborn, Swelling of Groin
Summary
Inguinal hernia is a condition in which the abdominal contents slip through the inguinal ring into the scrotum. It is the most common cause of groin swelling in the young foal, but other swellings are possible. Inguinal hernia is more common in the gaited and warmblood breeds and happens because the inguinal ring (connective tissue ring that borders the inguinal canal) is large enough to allow intestine to pass through.
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Code Red
Call Your Vet Immediately, Even Outside Business Hours- If the swelling is large, painful or growing rapidly.
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Code Orange
Call Your Vet at Their First Available Office Hours- If the foal appears otherwise normal, i.e. is active and nursing normally.
- If the swelling is mild or moderate, and not increasing rapidly.
your role
What To Do
Assess your foal's general health and take their rectal temperature. Assess the foal's attitude and appetite.Gently press on the swollen area and assess whether the swelling is soft or hard, and moveable or fixed. Feel for heat in the area or a pain response to gentle pressure. Contact your vet with your findings and concerns.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Your vet should promptly examine foals with groin swelling because there is a possibility of entrapment of intestine in the inguinal ring, which could be life-threatening. Your vet uses a clinical exam to differentiate the causes of swelling here. In some cases, ultrasound can also be very useful.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- How old is the foal?
- Is the foal active and nursing?
- Does the foal appear healthy otherwise?
- What breed is the foal?
- Is the swelling soft or firm?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
Very Common
