Search Results (168)

The sense of smell is the first sense by which horses determine the suitability of feed for consumption. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of the degree of familiarity with the smell and taste of plants on horses’ olfactory exploration. Behavioural responses of twenty adult horses to nine herbs of three degrees of familiarity—least familiar (unknown in the first trial), known only by smell, and known by smell and taste—were investigated. During the tests, the horses were allowed to explore the individual herbs placed in a crib constructed to prevent them from eating the contents. Horses’ pre-consuming behaviour towards olfactory cues of plants was mainly expressed by different times of exploration. The horses explored herbs known by smell and taste less intensively than those initially unfamiliar, but not less intensively than herbs known only by smell. Thus, having more sensory experience (taste and olfactory) with a plant in the past, horses are often quicker to recognise plants based solely on the sense of smell in the future. The sex and type of the horse (warmblood, pony) may influence responses towards herbs of different levels of familiarity. Full article

Changes in horse management and use mean that a growing number of horses are now kept into older age, while age-specific management practices for these animals remain insufficiently documented. This cross-sectional online survey aimed to describe the housing, feeding, activity, behaviour and care routines of horses aged 20 years and older in Germany, based on 923 questionnaires completed by horse owners about their senior horses. Most horses maintained regular tactile social contact (87.4%, n = 805), and over half were still ridden or driven (61.6%, n = 566). However, the proportion of horses in active riding or driving use declined strongly with age, from 78% in 20–24-year-old horses to 57% in those aged 25–29 years and 34% in horses aged 30 years or older (p < 0.0001). Daily grooming likewise decreased with age, falling from 58% in the youngest age group to 40% in the oldest, while weekly grooming became more common (20–24 vs. ≥30 years: p < 0.0001; 25–29 vs. ≥30 years: p = 0.0017). Behavioural patterns were largely stable, although the proportion of horses reported to have lost social rank within the herd increased from 25% in 20–24-year-old horses to 41% in horses aged 30 years or older (20–24 vs. 25–29 years: p = 0.0050; 20–24 vs. ≥30 years: p = 0.0002). Feeding practices also showed pronounced age-related differences: the use of long-fibered dry roughage declined from 90% in the youngest group to 69% in the oldest, whereas the use of pre-chopped dry roughage increased from 21% to 73% (both p < 0.0001). The provision of mineral and vitamin supplements likewise decreased with age, from 51% of horses in the youngest group to 35% in the oldest (p = 0.0026). These findings indicate consistent differences between age groups in owner-reported management practices and highlight the importance of considering age when evaluating how older horses are managed. Full article

Polo is a high-speed equestrian sport that imposes mechanical demands on horses and turf, yet limited research has examined the functional behavior of polo playing surfaces. This study characterizes the spatial variability of mechanical surface properties across turf polo pitches representing high-, medium-, and low-handicap categories. Three fields were assessed using lightweight field-based instruments, including the Impact Test Device (ITD), Rotational Peak Shear (RPS) tester, Going Stick© for penetration (GSP) and shear (GSS), and a TDR probe for volumetric moisture content (VMC%). A total of 210–223 grid-based sampling points per pitch were analyzed to evaluate mechanical responses under vertical and horizontal loading conditions. Significant differences among pitches were observed, with ITD and VMC emerging as the indicators of surface behaviour. Spatial analysis revealed heterogeneous within-pitch patterns, expressed as directional gradients and localized variability. Linear discriminant analysis demonstrated that the combined measurements could differentiate pitches associated with different handicap levels with high classification accuracy (0.88). Although the applied instruments do not replicate full equine biomechanical loading, they proved effective in detecting spatial variability in surface uniformity, a functional property relevant to performance and equine welfare. These findings support integration of spatially explicit surface assessments into routine turf management practices. Full article

Accurate early prognostic assessment is a central aspect of clinical decision-making in horses presenting with colic. Despite the availability of multiple clinical and laboratory parameters, reliable biomarkers that provide useful information at the time of admission remain limited. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a non-specific indicator of systemic inflammation that has recently been validated for automated point-of-care use in horses. Its behaviour in equine colic has not been previously characterised. This study included 85 horses admitted for colic at two university referral hospitals. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was measured at admission in all horses and again approximately 24 h after surgery in a subset of surgical cases. Horses were classified as medically managed, surgical survivors or surgical non-survivors. Group comparisons were performed using non-parametric statistical methods, and associations with survival were evaluated. The admission erythrocyte sedimentation rate was significantly lower in surgical non-survivors compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Erythrocyte sedimentation rate rose in surviving horses within 24 h, while it barely changed among non-survivors, and there were no significant changes among surgical values. Actually, these observations suggest that low erythrocyte sedimentation rates on admission are associated with low chances of survival for horses undergoing colic surgery and thus make these rates a feasible additional prognostic indicator for equine colic. Full article

The use of horses for sport is under scrutiny due to evidence that common practices such as tight nosebands may impair horse welfare. Restrictive nosebands prevent horses from performing normal comfort behaviour such as coughing and yawning. To address these concerns, the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) developed a noseband tightness-checking device, the ISES “taper gauge,” along with a validated method that assesses how far the device can be inserted beneath the noseband at the dorsal midline of the nasal planum. However, citing concerns about the reliability of dorsal midline measurements, MacKechnie-Guire and co-authors evaluated three alternative sites: lateral to the nasal bone, the maxilla, and the mandible. They concluded that the lateral maxilla was a suitable substitute for the dorsal midline. The methods and interpretation of the findings of this study have raised concerns that measuring noseband laxity at the lateral maxilla may underestimate tightness because of the substantial volume of soft tissue at that location. This could expose horses to the welfare risks associated with overly tight nosebands. This commentary outlines the authors’ concerns and offers recommendations for how future studies might address avoid the issues raised here. Full article

The objective of the present study was to apply supervised Machine Learning to predict severe complications after equine orchiectomy. A dataset of 612 cases of orchiectomies in stallions was used for the development of a computational model, among which in 8.5% of cases severe complications (colic, continued stallion-like behaviour, evisceration, funiculitis, haemorrhage, and scrotal infection) were diagnosed post-orchiectomy. Three supervised Machine Learning tools were employed: Logistic Regression (12 different models evaluated), Random Forest (64 models), and Gradient Boosting (8 models). For the prediction of the development of severe complications post-orchiectomy, Logistic Regression was the tool that produced the best discrimination measures, where accuracy, precision and recall were 0.9134, 0.8391, and 0.9133, respectively. The results of the analysis for SHapley Additive exPlanations values for the impact of the independent variables in the prediction of the development of complications indicated that (a) the age of the horse and (b) the surgical technique employed were the two variables that mostly influenced the prediction outcome, findings that were unambiguous in the models developed by any Machine Learning tool. The findings of this study indicate that computational models could be used as adjunct tools to support clinical decisions in the peri-operative management of horses. Full article

The Eurasian Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus) is the most abundant obligate scavenger in Europe. It depends on wild and domestic carcasses whose availability and location are relatively unpredictable in terms of space and time, but also on predictable sources of anthropogenic origin. In this study, satellite and accelerometer data from 10 adult individuals captured in the Basque Country (N Spain) were analysed with the aims of identifying feeding sites and determining the types of resources used. The annual cycle of the species was subdivided into three phases: pre-laying and incubation (December–March), rearing (April–July) and post-rearing (August–November). Our results showed that 64% of trophic resources were consumed in mountain pastures and on extensive or semi-extensive livestock farms, highlighting the importance of these farming systems for the species in the study area. However, 36% of the resources were exploited in more predictable anthropic environments, such as landfills and supplementary feeding stations and, to a much lesser extent, intensive farms. Individual variability was detected in terms of trophic behaviour. On semi-extensive farms, the most consumed carcasses were sheep (48%) and horses (37%), while on intensive farms, it was pigs (81%). During the pre-laying and incubation phase, feeding events detected in landfills were reduced, with vultures focusing on resources close to the colony. We observed that the population studied differed from other Spanish populations in its greater use of trophic resources from extensive and semi-extensive livestock farms, as expected from their spatial-temporal distribution and local availability. Full article

This study investigates the selective dissolution of manganese from a manganiferous iron ore using nitric acid (HNO₃) in the presence of various organic reductants. A series of leaching experiments was performed to evaluate the effects of temperature, reductant type, and leaching time on Mn recovery, with particular emphasis on biomass (horse dung) and tartaric acid as novel reducing agents. The dissolution behaviour of Fe, Mn, Mg, Ca, and Al was systematically examined, revealing that Mn extraction was strongly enhanced in the presence of reductants, while Fe dissolution remained below 10% under all conditions. The maximum Mn dissolution exceeded 90% at 90 °C using biomass and reached nearly 85%–90% with tartaric acid at elevated temperatures. Kinetic studies were conducted by applying reaction order models and the shrinking core model. The results indicated that Mn dissolution in HNO₃ medium is predominantly controlled by surface chemical reaction, with Arrhenius analysis yielding activation energies of 27.74 kJ/mol for biomass and 21.26 kJ/mol for tartaric acid. These relatively low values confirm the efficiency of organic reductants in facilitating Mn reduction and dissolution. To sum up, comparison of reductant efficiency revealed that, at the lowest concentrations, the dissolution of Mn followed the sequence glucose > sucrose > oxalic acid > tartaric acid > maleic acid > biomass > citric acid > acetic acid. At the highest concentrations, the trend shifted, with citric acid emerging as the most effective, followed by tartaric acid > oxalic acid > glucose > sucrose > maleic acid > biomass > acetic acid. Full article

There are few 24 h time budgets for horses, especially for domesticated horses kept at pasture. Most time budgets utilise short-term scan sampling, which can miss behaviours. This study aimed to assess the seasonal variation in continuous behaviour of domesticated Icelandic horses at pasture during winter and spring in fair weather. Eight Icelandic horses (11.25 ± 9.19 years; 7 geldings, 1 stallion) were observed in a 26 acre field. Herd location and individual behaviour were continuously observed during 3 h periods amounting to 3 × 24 h in winter and late spring, compiled over 43 days (~21 days per season). Seasonal variation in behaviour (ANOVA), body condition (RMANOVA), and age-group variation (independent t-test) were assessed, as well as associations between weather, time period, and habitat choice (chi-square). During spring, horses showed more foraging (+18%; p < 0.001), movement (+0.5%; p < 0.05), recumbency (+5.7%; p < 0.01) and less standing (−24.6%; p < 0.001) than in winter. Behavioural synchronicity occurred between adult and juvenile horses. Mean body condition reduced from 5.6 to 4.8 in the winter. Habitat preferences varied by daytime and season, and non-feeding periods lasted less than 2 h. The 24 h foraging activity (winter: 12.7 ± 0.4 h, spring: 17 ± 0.25 h) supported the current recommendation of 12 h/24 h for domesticated horses to meet ethological requirements. Full article

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) is a common, slowly progressive, neurodegenerative disorder of the older horse. Oxidative damage to the hypothalamic periventricular neurons results in loss of dopaminergic inhibition of the pars intermedia region of the pituitary gland. Consequently, there is increased production of the pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived hormones normally produced by this region, as well as initial melanocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia, followed by adenomatous change. Clinical signs that are highly suggestive of the disease are generalised and regional hypertrichosis and delayed/abnormal coat shedding. Numerous clinical signs provide a moderate clinical suspicion, including hyperhidrosis, abnormal fat distribution/regional adiposity, epaxial muscle atrophy/loss of topline, laminitis, weight loss, recurrent infections, behavioural changes/lethargy, polyuria and polydipsia, a pot-bellied appearance, bulging supraorbital fat pads, reduced wound healing, lordosis and infertility. In all animals, a diagnosis of PPID is made based on the signalment, clinical signs and results of further diagnostic tests, with age being a crucial factor to consider. Currently recommended further diagnostic tests are measurement of basal adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) concentrations (all year) and evaluation of the ACTH response to thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) using seasonally adjusted references intervals (non-autumn). Animals should also be tested for insulin dysregulation, as laminitis risk in PPID is associated with hyperinsulinaemia. PPID can be managed but not cured; it is a lifelong condition. The individual clinical signs can be managed, e.g., clipping the excessive haircoat and providing unrestricted access to water for individuals with polydipsia. Alternatively, pharmacological management can be employed, and the dopamine-2 receptor agonist pergolide is licensed/approved for the treatment of equine PPID. This should be prescribed in combination with dietary recommendations based on the body condition score and insulin sensitivity status of the individual animal. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study examines the effectiveness of equine-assisted intervention (EAI) in improving adaptive behaviour and motor skills in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: To that effect, a self-controlled experimental analytical study has been designed, which is longitudinal and prospective in nature, with pre- and post-intervention measures, using the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale II (VABS-II) as the assessment instrument. The sample consists of 19 children who participated in weekly therapeutic sessions involving horses for eight months; these sessions included horseback riding, groundwork, hygiene, and preparation of the horse. Results: The results show significant improvements both in the overall score of the VABS-II test ($\overline{\mathrm{x}}$pre: 65.84 ± 10.38–$\overline{\mathrm{x}}$post: 72.47 ± 16.21, p = 0.003) and in the areas of communication ($\overline{\mathrm{x}}$pre: 64.84 ± 15.50 ~ $\overline{\mathrm{x}}$post: 72.26 ± 21.93, p = 0.010), social skills ($\overline{\mathrm{x}}$pre: 61.26 ± 8.99 ~ $\overline{\mathrm{x}}$post: 66.53 ± 13.79, p = 0.008) and daily living skills (DLS) ($\overline{\mathrm{x}}$pre: 66.21 ± 11.15 ~ $\overline{\mathrm{x}}$post: 69.95 ± 12.32, p = 0.0004), as well as a non-significant slight improvement in motor skills ($\overline{\mathrm{x}}$pre: 72.50 ± 8.83 ~ $\overline{\mathrm{x}}$post: 75.17 ± 7.88, p = 0.363). In addition, these gains were greater in those children attending standard classroom settings and receiving early stimulation. Conclusions: This study suggests equine-assisted intervention (EAI) may contribute to improvements in adaptive behaviour, including communication, social skills, and daily living skills, in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Benefits were notably enhanced in children receiving early stimulation within standard classroom settings. Full article

Visual observation to record grass intake is time-consuming and labour-intensive. Technological methods, such as activity monitors, have been used but only record head position. This study aimed to evaluate sound recorders attached to headcollars to acoustically measure grass intake behaviour in horses as a low-cost alternative method. Pilot Study 1 assessed 6 × 11 min periods comparing bites/min and chews/min between video footage (VD) and sound recorders (SR). Grazing was identified audibly (SR_ear) and visually through soundwave pattern software (SR_wav). Chew rates (SR_ear: 47 ± 5 chews/min, VD: 43 ± 4 chews/min) were similar between methods. Pilot Study 2 compared hourly grass intake times between SR_wav and visual observation (VO) for two horses during a 3 h period. Results showed significant correlation between methods (rho = 0.99, p < 0.01, Spearman). The main study measured intake behaviour using SR_wav and VO methods for three free-ranging horses during 3 h observation periods over multiple days, adding up to 3 × 24 h in winter and in spring (n = 48). Mean differences per period between SR_wav and VO were 1.8% ± 3 s.d. Foraging duration per period measured with SR_wav closely matched VO (r² = 0.99, p < 0.001). Sound recorders accurately recorded grass intake time and chews in grazing horses during moderate weather conditions. Full article

This commentary evaluates contemporary equestrian sport governance through the lens of equine welfare science. Drawing on evidence from the FEI Sport Forum 2025 debates, the IFHA Racing Integrity Handbook, media coverage of horse sport, recent scientific presentations, regulatory texts, and published research, we identify systemic shortcomings in how horse welfare is assessed, prioritised, and protected. Key issues include reliance on performance as a proxy for welfare, inadequate “fit-to-compete” protocols, neglect of horses’ mental states, coercive tack and equipment practices (e.g., double bridles, tight nosebands, ear hoods), pharmacological and surgical interventions that mask pain, euphemistic regulatory language (e.g., whip “encouragement”), and inconsistent implementation of welfare rules. Through a series of case studies, from dressage and show jumping forums to racing integrity handbooks, we illustrate euphemistic language, defensive group dynamics, dismissive rhetoric towards evidence-based criticism, and a troubling “stable blindness” that sidelines the horse’s perspective. We conclude that meaningful reform requires (1) embedding validated behavioural and physical welfare indicators into all competition and pre-competition protocols, (2) transparent, evidence-inclusive rule-making under a precautionary principle, (3) genuine engagement with independent equine welfare experts, and (4) establishment of empowered, impartial oversight bodies to ensure that stated codes of conduct translate into consistent, enforceable practice. Only by catering to the horse’s subjective experiences and applying modern ethological and bioethical standards can equestrian sport retain its social licence and ensure integrity in all areas of competition management. Full article

Equine gastric disease (EGD) is a common condition in performance horses (Equus caballus), potentially compromising behaviour, performance, and welfare. EGD is often attributed to high-starch, high-sugar feeds and limited forage. Evidence for diet-induced changes on digestive microbiota is lacking. Nine elite showjumping horses were housed at the same performance yard with standardised diet and management throughout the study. Horses were transitioned from a high-sugar and -starch (31%) feed to a low-starch and -sugar (16.5%) concentrate feed. Gastroscopies, blood, and faecal samples were taken pre- and 12 weeks post-diet change. Squamous and glandular ulceration was blindly graded a posteriori using 0–4 scores and faecal microbiota profiled using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Total (t_(1,8) = −6.17, p < 0.001; Pre: 4 [0–5], Post: 1 [0–2]), squamous (t_(1,8) = −5.32, p < 0.001; Pre: 1 [0–3], Post: 0 [0–1]), and glandular (t_(1,8) = −2.53, p = 0.04; Pre: 2.5 [0–4], Post: 0 [0–2]) disease improved following the introduction of a low-starch diet. Diet change did not impact microbiota communities (PERMANOVA: F_(1,16) = 1.37, p = 0.15, r² = 0.08), but Firmicute to Bacteroidota (F/B) ratio reduced (t_(1,8) = −3.13, p = 0.01; Pre: 2.07 ± 0.21 vs. Post: 1.29 ± 0.14). Lower F/B ratios were associated with reduced total EGD scores (ChiSq_(1,17) = 3.83, p = 0.05). Low-starch diets did not influence faecal microbiota diversity but aided gastric disease healing and reduced F/B ratios in elite showjumpers during a competition season without medication. Full article

Despite welfare concerns, conflict behaviours (indicative of momentary states of acute stress) are common in horses during dressage competitions. Identifying factors that affect conflict behaviours during competition therefore has the potential to improve equine welfare. The aim of this exploratory study was to assess the effect of bridle type (double versus snaffle) in relation to other potential affecting factors (e.g., average head angle, competition level and type, tack variation) on conflict behaviours during dressage competition. An ethogram was created to analyse the conflict behaviour of horses (n = 135) at dressage competitions. Behaviours were reduced into nine components using principal component analysis. The effects of bridle type and its interaction with other additional factors (competition level, competition type, average head angle) on component scores were analysed using multilevel Bayesian regression models. The results demonstrated a multifaceted interaction between bridle type, inferred rider skill level, and ridden head angle. The results also demonstrated that during dressage tests, 100% of horses performed the conflict behaviours of mouth opening and 86.7% of horses performed tail swishing. The ethological and welfare implications of these findings are discussed. Full article