Which of the following is a potential complication of rectal palpation in horses?

• A. Laryngeal collapse
• B. Pyometra
• C. Rectal Tear
• D. Oral ulcers

Answer: (C)

Rectal palpation in horses carries a real risk of trauma to the rectal wall, and the most significant potential complication is a rectal tear. The rectum in horses is delicate, and during a rectal exam the wall can be stressed or lacerated if excessive force, abrupt movements, or insufficient lubrication occur. A tear can allow fecal material and bacteria to enter the peritoneal cavity, potentially causing septic peritonitis and life-threatening colic. Good technique—adequate lubrication, gentle, steady palpation, proper restraint, and, when appropriate, sedation—helps minimize this risk. The other options are not complications of the procedure themselves; they are unrelated conditions or issues not caused by rectal palpation.