Roarer

A 'roarer' is a term primarily used in veterinary medicine and equestrian contexts to describe a horse that makes a distinctive roaring sound when breathing heavily, particularly during exercise. This sound is caused by a paralysis or damage to the nerves controlling the muscles of the larynx, which impairs the horse's ability to fully open its airway. Consequently, the horse struggles to get enough air, leading to the characteristic wheezing, whistling, or roaring noise. The severity of the condition, also known as laryngeal hemiplegia, can vary, impacting the horse's athletic performance.

Roarer meaning with examples

• The vet diagnosed the racehorse with a mild case of roarer, explaining the subtle whistling sound during its training runs. They recommended rest and anti-inflammatory medications to manage the symptoms. This could still affect race day performance.
• Despite the owner's careful training regime, the show jumper started showing signs of being a roarer, its breathing becoming labored after jumping a course. The team consulted a specialist to assess and treat the horse's condition to maintain peak performance.
• The experienced horse trainer immediately recognized the tell-tale sign of a roarer in the young colt, the sound made when pulling him from his stable. Early detection was vital. The veterinarian confirmed the diagnosis.
• During the endurance ride, the rider noticed their horse exhibiting the classic symptoms of a roarer, gasping for air and producing a loud rasping sound. The rider was immediately concerned for the horse's welfare.
• The auctioneer pointed out that the horse for sale had been officially declared a 'roarer', a condition that significantly impacted its sale price, reflecting its likely reduced athletic abilities.