Elapid snake envenomation in horses: 52 cases (2006–2016)

Abstract

Background: Snake envenomation is a cause of morbidity and mortality in domestic animals worldwide. The clinical features of crotalid snake (pit viper) envenomation are widely reported and well described in horses but elapid snake envenomation is poorly characterised. Objectives: To describe the presentation, clinical and laboratory findings, treatment and outcome of horses with a diagnosis of elapid snake envenomation in Australia. Study design: Retrospective case series. Methods: Medical records of horses with a diagnosis of elapid snake envenomation (2006–2016) at several university and private veterinary practices were reviewed. Inclusion criteria comprised one or more of the following: ..