Tying-Up in Horses

Tying up in horses, also known as azoturia is a muscle metabolism problem. The muscles over the loins and the quarters harden, with cramps and stiffness. The stride becomes shorter and eventually may lead the horse to stagger behind and potentially go lame. The horse may refuse to work or collapse during work. The temperature is usually raised, and there may be sweating. In severe cases the urine may turn dark red or brown.

The many reasons for tying-up or azoturia all have something in common; the normal balance of the horse's metabolic system is subjected to unexpected change. This may be a change of exercise or work routine, of temperature, of diet, of stress, or, in mares in heat, a hormonal change. The horse's system suddenly does not know what is going to happen next and so activates protective measures - it conserves, or holds on to, electrolytes. In tying-up, the cells have taken priority and the horse is in a poor state of improperly functioning muscles and digestion.

Tying-up may be Sporadic, that is occasional and temporary, occurring often but clearing up, or it may become Chronic, making the horse useless for further work. All grades of tying-up or azoturia introduce uncertainty about the performance of the horse in any competitive sport.

For more information, contact your local vet. 

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