Bute for horses, also known as phenylbutazone, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation in horses. It has been used in horses for more than 50 years and is still a commonly prescribed medication by equine veterinarians. Bute is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, laminitis, tendon and ligament injuries, and colic. It is also used to reduce fever and swelling caused by infection and illness.
Types of Bute for Horses
Bute for horses comes in two forms: oral and injectable. The oral form is a powder that is mixed with the horse’s feed or water. The injectable form is given directly into the horse’s muscle or vein. The injectable form is usually given when the horse is experiencing severe pain or inflammation that needs to be addressed quickly.
How Does Bute for Horses Work?
Bute for horses works by blocking certain enzymes in the body that produce hormones associated with inflammation and pain. By blocking these enzymes, Bute reduces inflammation and pain in horses. It also helps to reduce fever and swelling caused by infection and illness.
Benefits of Bute for Horses
Bute for horses has a number of benefits, including:
- Reducing inflammation – Bute reduces inflammation and swelling caused by arthritis, laminitis, tendon and ligament injuries, and colic.
- Reducing pain – Bute helps to reduce pain in horses.
- Reducing fever – Bute helps to reduce fever and swelling caused by infection and illness.
Side Effects of Bute for Horses
Bute for horses can cause some side effects, including:
- Gastrointestinal upset – Bute can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in some horses.
- Hematological abnormalities – Bute can cause anemia, decreased white blood cell count, and decreased platelet count in some horses.
- Liver damage – Bute can cause liver damage in some horses.
It is important to talk to your veterinarian before giving Bute to your horse and to monitor your horse’s condition closely while it is taking Bute.
How Much Does Bute for Horses Cost?
The cost of Bute for horses will vary depending on the form of Bute, the strength, and the quantity. The oral form of Bute is typically the least expensive and can cost around $10 to $20 for a 500 mg bottle. The injectable form of Bute can cost around $20 to $40 for a 10 ml vial. The cost of Bute for horses will also vary depending on where you purchase it.
Where to Buy Bute for Horses
Bute for horses can be purchased from your local veterinarian, a feed store, or online. When purchasing Bute online, be sure to purchase from a reputable source and read the product label carefully to ensure that you are purchasing the correct form and strength of Bute for your horse.
How to Administer Bute for Horses
The administration of Bute for horses will depend on the form of Bute being used. The oral form of Bute should be mixed with the horse’s feed or water according to the instructions on the product label. The injectable form of Bute should be given directly into the horse’s muscle or vein according to the instructions on the product label.
Precautions When Using Bute for Horses
It is important to talk to your veterinarian before giving Bute to your horse and to monitor your horse’s condition closely while it is taking Bute. Bute should not be given to horses that are pregnant, nursing, or younger than one year of age. It is important to follow the product label instructions regarding dosage and administration.
Conclusion
Bute for horses is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat pain and inflammation in horses. The cost of Bute for horses will vary depending on the form of Bute, the strength, and the quantity. Bute for horses can be purchased from your local veterinarian, a feed store, or online. It is important to talk to your veterinarian before giving Bute to your horse and to monitor your horse’s condition closely while it is taking Bute.