DiscoverScoop & Scale: An Equine Podcast (Mostly) About NutritionEp. 49: Beyond Diarrhea: Identifying and Managing Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in Horses
Ep. 49: Beyond Diarrhea: Identifying and Managing Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in Horses

Ep. 49: Beyond Diarrhea: Identifying and Managing Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in Horses

Update: 2025-05-26
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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. Specifically we discuss:

  • the differences between FFWS, loose manure, and diarrhea, 
  • the various potential causes of this condition, from diet changes to individual horse variability
  • common myths around breeds that are more at risk
  • when you need to consider calling your vet
  • typical diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies
  • dietary changes and supplements that might be beneficial
  • whether this condition requires treatment if your horse is otherwise happy and healthy.

You can find more information about Dr. Phoebe Smith and Riviera Equine Internal Medicine & Consulting HERE



Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com

Thanks for riding along with us!

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Ep. 49: Beyond Diarrhea: Identifying and Managing Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in Horses

Ep. 49: Beyond Diarrhea: Identifying and Managing Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in Horses

Dr. Clair Thunes and Jill Jackson