RMR Equine Service LLC

After an emergency, animals may not have access to food for days at a time. Their bodies respond to this starvation by mobilizing energy stores to meet their needs, but this can cause major fluid and electrolyte abnormalities.

Upon rescuing an animal after a disaster, it may be your immediate instinct to offer them food as soon as possible. However, if these animals are offered free choice feed after being rescued, these imbalances can drastically worsen and result in respiratory, cardiac, and neurologic complications. This group of clinical signs in response to introducing feed after starvation is termed “refeeding syndrome”.

To prevent refeeding syndrome, follow the guidelines outlined in the graphic and be sure to work with a veterinarian to address any concerns specific to your situation.

Thank you to the Horse Owner Education Commitee for providing this information.

Back to school an busy? Don't forget to clean your horses feet out! Thrush is no fun, but easily avoided!