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Thumps is a condition that occurs in horses where there is an irregular spasming of the
diaphragm Diaphragm may refer to: Anatomy * Thoracic diaphragm, a thin sheet of muscle between the thorax and the abdomen * Pelvic diaphragm or pelvic floor, a pelvic structure * Urogenital diaphragm or triangular ligament, a pelvic structure Other * Diap ...
, usually caused by dehydration due to fluid loss and related abnormal electrolyte levels, most often
blood calcium Calcium ions (Ca2+) contribute to the physiology and biochemistry of organisms' cells. They play an important role in signal transduction pathways, where they act as a second messenger, in neurotransmitter release from neurons, in contraction of ...
. It is essentially a case of the hiccups, but in horses it usually has a more serious underlying cause than in the corresponding human condition. Another condition that can cause thumps is diarrhea. For that reason, a case of thumps requires immediate veterinary attention. It is most often seen in horses used for
endurance riding Endurance riding is an equestrian sport based on controlled long-distance races. It is one of the international competitions recognized by the FEI. There are endurance rides worldwide. Endurance rides can be any distance, though they are rare ...
but also occurs in other equine athletes. Clinical signs include sound coming from the horse's abdomen, which also can be seen contracting with the animal's heartbeat, but at rates of 40-50 times per minute. The condition was first identified by a veterinarian in 1831.


References

{{veterinary-med-stub Horse diseases