Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following defines the term 'heaves' as it relates to horses?

1. A nutritional disorder

2. A respiratory condition

3. A foot ailment

4. A skin disease

The correct answer is: A respiratory condition

The term 'heaves' specifically refers to a chronic respiratory condition in horses, which is caused by the inflammation of the airways leading to difficulty in breathing. It is often associated with exposure to allergens, such as dust or mold found in hay and bedding. Horses suffering from heaves may exhibit symptoms such as a persistent cough, nasal discharge, and a characteristic abdominal effort during exhalation, leading to a pronounced "heaving" appearance of the abdomen. The other options represent different health issues in horses. Nutritional disorders pertain to imbalances or deficiencies in diet, foot ailments typically involve problems with the horse's hooves, and skin diseases affect the integumentary system. None of these accurately describe the nature of heaves, reinforcing that the respiratory system is the primary concern associated with this term in equine health.