Bloating/Swelling

Bloating/Swelling of the body of the horse can be due to either Internal Gas Bubble Disease (IGBD) or fluid retention.

IGBD is the build-up of gases in the abdomen and tissues causing swelling.

The second most common cause of swelling is fluid retention or edema resulting from kidney failure.

However, there is a simple method of differentiating the two conditions. The retained fluid of edema will make the horse sink to the bottom of the tank and often lean over under the significantly increased weight. If the animal is swollen and floating, it is not fluid retention, and therefore must be IGBD.

Other causes of buoyancy instability include swim bladder disease secondary to bacterial infection and/or parasites. Usually these seahorses are not swollen.

Treatment for IGBD relies on the use of Diamox and its inhibition of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase. In addition, Diamox and an antibiotic can be used to treat kidney failure which is usually caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly Vibrio. In this case Diamox acts as a diuretic and helps to remove excess fluid from the body. Information provided by Renee Coles-Hix