Equines | Equidae
The Equidae family is comprised of horses, donkeys, and zebras with only one existing family, Equus, which is made up of seven living species. The Equidae family most likely originated in North America, however, domestic zebras, horses, and donkeys now exist worldwide while wild horses and zebras exist only in Asia and Africa. All members of the Equidae family are herbivores, most of which graze on low quality vegetation to survive. In the wild Equidae, either live in close-knit herds led by a stallion or in fluid groups where the females float between males who possess resources. While only seven species currently exist, about 60 more species are known from fossils.
Equines are part of the mammal family, Equidae, that includes the modern horse, zebra, and ass. The equine family has 7 living species. Equines are odd-toed ungulates and have long, slender legs, long heads, long necks, manes, and long nails. All species of equines are herbivorous.
Mules are the result of breeding a female horse, and a male donkey. They were intentionally bred to bring out the best characteristics of horses and donkeys while eliminating any undesirable characteristics. Mules have been bred since 3,000 BCE.
The Coggins Test is a blood test in equines that is used to diagnose Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). This disease causes equines to have fevers, anemia, edema, weight loss, and muscle wasting. Infected horses carry the disease for life, and there is no vaccine nor treatment for EIA.
