Genetics of the tying-up syndrome in warm-blooded horses

Abstract

Symptoms of ‘tying up’ in horses range from musculoskeletal problems due to stiffening of the muscles, especially the hind limbs and loins to discolouration of the urine (azoturia) and lateral recumbency. According to the current state of research, the term ‘tying up’ covers var ious diseases that have similar symptoms. Unique definitions of the various diseases covered by the term are challenging due to the similarity of clinical presentation. Inadequate training and electrolyte imbalances are characterized as high-risk factors that may lead to tying up symptoms. The occurrence of the syndrome increases the likelihood of reoccurrence. Furthermore, clinical studies have proven, that certain families of horses show higher inci dences which leads to the assumption of genetic predisposition.