01/24/2022
Good reminder of body-scoring.
DO YOU KNOW YOUR HORSE’S BCS (body condition score)?
Most horse owners understand the dangers of a horse dropping weight and becoming too thin; however, many of those same horse owners underestimate the fact that an overweight horse is just as unhealthy, and can be much more difficult to manage and rehabilitate than a thin animal. An overweight horse will not only have a compromised quality of life; it will also be at higher risk of a number of health problems — like laminitis, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, the formation of colic-causing lipomas (fat tumors in the abdomen), joint and bone problems, reduced reproduction efficiency and increased stress on their heart and lungs.
Being able to assess your equine friend's weight and body condition is a valuable skill. Because "fitness" is subjective, the Henneke Body Condition Scoring Chart provides a standard scoring system for you, the veterinarian, the nutritionist and other health care professionals involved in the care of your animal. The horse's physical condition is rated on visual appraisal and palpation (feel) of six key conformation points: the amount of flesh or fat covering along the neck; the withers; down the crease of the back; at the tailhead; ribs: and behind the shoulder at the girth. A body condition score of somewhere between 4 and 6 is ideal for most horses. However, keep in mind that in some disciplines (like racing, polo and eventing) and some life stages (like pregnancy) a higher or lower body score might be more appropriate.
If you think your horse is too fat or too thin (or even if you are unsure), have a chat with your veterinarian to discuss the appropriate condition and a feeding and exercise program for your animal!
