What action should be taken when a horse is choking?

When a horse is choking, the most appropriate action is to remove food and water. This is essential because providing food or water during a choking incident can exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to more severe blockage or complications. Choking in horses typically indicates that something is obstructing the esophagus, and introducing food or water can make it more difficult for the horse to clear the obstruction, or it may lead to aspiration, where the food or water enters the airway instead of the digestive tract.

In a choking situation, remaining calm and minimizing stress for the horse is crucial. Keeping the horse walking is not generally recommended as it may increase anxiety and discomfort for the animal. Encouraging the horse to graze is inappropriate as it could lead to further impacts on the choke rather than aiding in resolving it. Hence, the best course of action is to keep food and water away until a veterinarian can assess and address the issue properly.