Ep. 49: Beyond Diarrhea: Identifying and Managing Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in Horses
Podcast: Scoop & Scale: An Equine Podcast (Mostly) About NutritionPublished On: Mon May 26 2025
Description: Free fecal water syndrome (FFWS) is a frustrating and often confusing problem for horse owners. A horse may pass normally formed manure while brown liquid is released before, during, or after manure passage, leaving the horse's hind legs and tail wet and soiled. But is free fecal water syndrome the same thing as diarrhea? What causes it? When should you call your veterinarian? And what can you actually do to manage it?In this episode, we explore the frustrating condition known as Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in horses. If you’ve ever dealt with your horse passing brown liquid before or after manure, you know this condition and how challenging it can be. Join us as we welcome back Dr. Phoebe Smith DVM, DACVIM, (an internal medicine specialist), to help us understand what FFWS is, how it's diagnosed, and effective management strategies. In this episode, you'll hear Dr. Phoebe Smith discuss: How FFWS differs from diarrhea and loose manure Potential causes and risk factors When veterinary evaluation is appropriate Diagnostic and management approaches Feeding and forage considerations Supplements, medications, and other treatments Skin care for horses affected by fecal water Prevention strategiesYou can find more information about Dr. Phoebe Smith and Riviera Equine Internal Medicine & Consulting HEREDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!
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