Horses and Heart Attacks

Farmer Jack was today reported to have died after a heart attack, whilst preparing for Friday's Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Usually they rupture their aorta just like Gerald Houlier did.

We breed thoroughbreds and one of our retired horses, Don’t Shoot Fairies, was only eight when he died of a heart attack at night in a field. Judging by the fact that there was no signs of distress, it was very quick.

This also happened to Persian Punch on the race course last year.

Remember that a horse is four times more efficient at extracting oxygen from the air than the fittest athletes and this must put a greater strain on their heart and lungs. So they nearly always have the attack at times of exercise.