Changes

'''Feeding'''

'''Feeding'''

When a lesion requiring surgical corrrection has been diagnosed, feeding may be contra-indicated until post surgery. However, a source of nutrition is needed as soon as possible in order to '''maintain a positive energy balance''' and prevent the development of hyperlipaemia. Rectal findings should be monitored, and in horses with caecal or colon impactions it is believed that feed should only be given once the impaction is no longer palpable. However, H. Duffield's experience, if the impacted donkey wants to eat and there are normal borborygmi present and a good faecal output, then small amounts of high calorie feed with a high water content may be useful to prevent hyperlipaemia. Mineral oil or glucose powder may also be added to the feeds to avoid using a nasogastric tube.

When a lesion requiring surgical corrrection has been diagnosed, feeding may be contra-indicated until post surgery. However, a source of nutrition is needed as soon as possible in order to '''maintain a positive energy balance''' and prevent the development of hyperlipaemia. Rectal findings should be monitored, and in horses with caecal or colon impactions it is believed that feed should only be given once the impaction is no longer palpable. However, H. Duffield's experience, if the impacted donkey wants to eat and there are normal borborygmi present and a good faecal output, then small amounts of high calorie feed with a high water content may be useful to prevent hyperlipaemia. Mineral oil or glucose powder may also be added to the feeds to avoid using a nasogastric tube.

 

Blood parameters need to be monitored closely, especially glucose levels which need checking every four hours'.

Turning an impacted donkey out into the field to eat fresh grass and move around may also encourage the passage of ingesta. Long fibres such as hay and straw should be restricted until the normal transit of ingesta has been completely re-established and should be reintroduced gradually.

Turning an impacted donkey out into the field to eat fresh grass and move around may also encourage the passage of ingesta. Long fibres such as hay and straw should be restricted until the normal transit of ingesta has been completely re-established and should be reintroduced gradually.