Horse, foaming at mouth, trying to throw up

Question
Situation: 4 horses came out of field, recent rains. Given about 1-1/2 lbs of all stock.  Within 15 min, top 2 horses of herd, 14 yo (Alpha) threw self to ground, followed by 20 yo, lying down and both began foaming, bubbling at mouth. Both were encouraged to walk, both responded. Walking horses, deficating w/o difficulty, active bowel sounds.  Feed inspected, no mold, no parasites. No kicking or pawing like in pain.  Other 2 horses not affected.  Horses have had free access to fresh water.

Answer
Dear Kitty

Two things come to mind. I would be concerned about a contaminate in that batch of feed.  If it was me, I would feed my horses something else until I could get it tested and prove otherwise. I would ditch the bag of feed and get a different brand.  Also, Red clover can get a fungus which can cause symptoms like this also. Since your horses were in the field that could be possible.  If you think that it may be something in your field, I'd call the local County Extension Agent and see if they would be willing to take a look at my field.

Last year there was a recall of some of the All Stock feed manufactured east of the Mississippi.  You don't say where you are, but it's certainly possible, even if you bought this feed last week, that it's been sitting around the store you bought it from.  

The recalled All Stock was:
56AT 0049098 Country Acres All Stock 14% Texture
56AZ 0051858 Country Acres All Stock 16% Texture

Even though your horses recovered quickly, I would be concerned.  You don't want to ASSUME this is harmless foaming when there is always some risk it is caused by something dangerous. Get your feed and pasture checked.

Good Luck.


Lynne Curtis Gudes
"Common sense isn't."