CHOKE occurs when the oesophagus (which connects the mouth and stomach) becomes obstructed, usually by food. Despite the alarming name, the horse is not “choking” in the true sense, where an object lodges in the trachea (windpipe), preventing airflow. This means that although choke can be dramatic to witness, serious longterm consequences are relatively rare and it is not an immediately life-threatening emergency.
That said, it is often painful and distressing for the horse and the risk of long-term problems will increase with the duration of the problem. Therefore, choke definitely warrants relatively prompt treatment and advice should always be sought from your vet if you think your horse is choking. Many cases will resolve without needing any treatment.
