My little guy who was born on the 1st of May had a lump above his umbilical stump which got larger and by the 4th looked like it was filled with fluids. The vet came out, ultrasounded, figured the stomach wall was closed, and put him on antibiotics/anti-inflammitories. Now (the 8th) it has been leaking fluids for the past few days very slowly, today it has been dribbling when he stands up. The vet figures it is patent urachea (sp?)...which will need to be fixed surgically. Anyone else deal with this or the symptoms??? Please help...at least to soothe my mind...I am worried sick about him.
Sounds like you are describing a patent urachus...and yes, surgery is warranted if it is still open. This should be done AS SOON as possible. Urine is leaking through the umbilical cord region. While I would love to "soothe" you, I can't stress the importance of having him taken to repair this. Here is a link from the ACVS to describe the condition in more detail. http://www.acvs.org/AnimalOwners/HealthConditions/LargeAnimalEquineTopics/Patent UrachusinFoals/
Let us know what you do, and his progress. Best of luck. Heather
Thanks Heather...I did a bit of research earlier today as well. I seem to be having bad luck with both my foals this year...both having an issue within a few days of birth. Anyhow, thanks for the very informative article...it "soothes" me to know more information about what I am dealing with. I find comfort in education it would seem.
I am so sorry to hear about your colt. My colt, born March 28th, had this same problem. About 4 days of age he was leaking from his umbilical stump, some how his cord fell off, and we had the vet out. Surgery was recommended, but I couldn't afford the $1500 so we opt for silver nitrate sticks, iodine flushes, antibiotics, gastroguard, and taking his temp: Everything done twice a day. Around day 7 of his treatment, he stopped leaking urine, a scab formed, no fever, and he is now a happy bouncing 7 week old. About 80% will heal on their own, but there is always the possibility of navel ill and joing ill...it was a hard decision for us to make but glad we didn't have the surgery. Good luck. -Ivy
Please note that opinions, product information, advice or suggestions posted on this bulletin board are not necessarily those of the management at Equine-Reproduction.com nor does the maintenance of the post position indicate an implicit or any endorsement of that information, opinion or product.
Further, although we have the greatest respect for the posters offering assistance here, you are advised to seek a consultation with your veterinarian prior to using information obtained from this board if it is of a veterinary nature.Proud to be sponsored and supported by:
