Participants sought for equine quality of life survey

In a letter to the Veterinary Record, Cory Noble, research associate at pharmaceutical company Zoetis, urged horse owners to complete a short online survey to help learn more about quality of life in horses.

The project, in collaboration with the research team behind VetMetrica, aims to develop a new tool to measure health-related quality of life in horses, focusing particularly on animals living with chronic conditions such as arthritis or laminitis. These conditions can significantly compromise quality of life, and the new questionnaire will help veterinary surgeons assess and monitor how horses are feeling.

 

Prof. Jacky Reid, one of the researchers, explains: “The participation of horse caretakers will help us understand the relevance and clarity of specific horse behaviours. The survey results will support the development and validity of our new measurement tool, especially when used in horses living with chronic conditions like arthritis or laminitis where their quality of life is significantly compromised.”

The researchers add that horse owners and caretakers possess unique insight into equine behaviour and wellbeing, and that their knowledge is essential for ensuring this new assessment tool is accurate, practical, and relevant to everyday equine care.

VetMetrica health-related quality of life instruments have already been developed for dogs and cats through collaboration between Zoetis and the University of Glasgow Veterinary School. These questionnaires are now widely used in clinical practice and research. The current project extends this work to horses, with the goal of providing veterinarians with a reliable tool to monitor and improve equine quality of life.

The research team invite horse owners and carers to contribute to this research and help shape the future of equine healthcare. Completing the survey will directly support the development of a validated quality of life tool for horses.

 

They state that the survey, which is anonymous, will take 15 – 25 minutes to complete. It asks participants to rate the clarity and relevance of different words and phrases used to describe horses when they are well and when they are unwell. Opportunities for feedback and suggestions are provided.

 

For more information and to take part, go to:

 

https://bit.ly/4pjDuSq

Effects of shoeing materials on equine gait

(c) Keseniya Abramova Dreamstime.com

 Horses are often fitted with metal shoes to protect the hoof from wear and to provide additional traction during training and competition. While the practice of shoeing is widespread, the choice of shoe material may influence more than just durability and grip. In particular, subtle changes in gait caused by different shoe types could alter the perceived aesthetic qualities of movement; an important factor in disciplines such as dressage, showing, and other judged sports. However, despite the prevalence of shoeing in equine management, there is relatively little objective scientific evidence on how different shoeing materials influence gait characteristics. 

The two most common metals used in horseshoes are steel and aluminium. Steel is the traditional material, valued for its strength and longevity, while aluminium is lighter and often preferred in certain competitive disciplines, such as racehorsing and showing, because it is believed to produce a more “elevated” or aesthetically pleasing gait. These beliefs are largely anecdotal, and until recently, only a limited amount of research had systematically examined the measurable effects of shoeing on gait mechanics.

To address this gap, Katherine Gottleib and colleagues at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, designed a study to investigate whether shoeing condition influences equine gait. Their specific aim was to compare gait parameters in horses under three different conditions: barefoot, aluminium-shod, and steel-shod, while trotting on two surfaces - hard asphalt and soft footing.

 The researchers hypothesised that shoeing would affect hoof arc height during both the early swing phase  and late swing phase of the stride, but that no other gait variables would be influenced.

Twelve healthy, adult, client-owned horses were enrolled in the study. Each horse was fitted with hoof- and body-mounted motion sensors that allowed precise measurement of stride characteristics. Data were collected while the horses trotted on both asphalt and soft footing under the three shoeing conditions (barefoot, aluminium, and steel).

The results provided some interesting insights. For most gait variables - including stride symmetry, mediolateral hoof deviation, stride length, and the timing of midstance, breakover, swing, and landing phases - there were no significant differences between shoeing conditions. However, shoe material did influence hoof arc height. 

Specifically: 

• Early swing phase: hoof arc height was significantly lower in aluminium shoes compared with steel shoes, on both asphalt and soft footing.
• Late swing phase: hoof arc height was significantly higher in aluminium shoes compared with steel shoes, but only on soft footing.

These findings suggest that the weight of the shoe can affect hoof movement differently depending on the stride phase and the surface type. In other words, while aluminium’s lighter weight did not alter overall stride length or timing, it did influence the vertical motion of the hoof at certain points in the stride cycle.

 From a practical perspective, this research indicates that shoe material may subtly alter aspects of gait that could influence how a horse’s movement is perceived by judges or riders in disciplines where style and aesthetics are valued. However, the measured differences were relatively small, and the study did not assess whether these biomechanical changes were noticeable to human observers. 

The authors concluded that further investigation is needed - not only into other shoe materials and designs, but also into whether changes in hoof arc height translate into meaningful differences in the subjective aesthetics of gait as judged by humans.

 

For more details, see: 

 Gottleib, Katherine, Lauren Trager-Burns, Amy Santonastaso, Sophie Bogers, Stephen Werre, Travis Burns, and Christopher Byron. 

Comparison of Gait Characteristics for Horses Without Shoes, with Steel Shoes, and with Aluminum Shoes

Animals (2025) vol 15, no. 16: 2376. 

https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15162376

Do good racehorses make good eventers?

(c) Olga Rudneva Dreamstime.com

 Many Thoroughbreds face the question of “what next?” when their racing careers come to an end. A large number
transition into new disciplines, with eventing being a popular second career. But does success on the racetrack translate into success on the cross-country course, in the dressage arena, or over show jumps? Understanding what makes a good eventer is central to both equine welfare and effective rehoming strategies for retired racehorses.

A good eventer needs a unique combination of physical and mental attributes: stamina, athleticism, scope over fences, trainability, and a temperament suited to handling the variety and intensity of three different phases. Thoroughbreds are naturally athletic, forward-going, and possess cardiovascular fitness, all of which make them appealing as eventing prospects. However, the qualities that make a horse fast and competitive on the racetrack may not always align with what is required for long-term success in eventing.

 

The ongoing debate about the welfare of retired racehorses highlights the importance of matching individuals to appropriate second careers. One of the big knowledge gaps has been whether a horse’s racing record - its number of wins, earnings, or career length - can be used to predict how well it will perform in another equestrian sport.

 

To address this, Elouise Bacon and colleagues from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, conducted a large-scale retrospective study. Their aim was to investigate whether Thoroughbred racing performance metrics are associated with eventing performance outcomes in horses competing within Australia.

 

The study analysed 6,828 off-the-track Thoroughbreds registered with Equestrian Australia. Data included racing metrics (such as wins, earnings, career duration, and best race distance) and eventing metrics (competition level achieved, penalties, and other performance indicators). Horses were grouped according to whether they competed at EvA95 and above (a nationally recognised level equivalent to international 1* eventing, involving a dressage test, a cross-country course up to 95 cm, and a show jumping round of the same height) or below EvA95. Statistical modelling was then used to explore whether racing performance could predict eventing outcomes.

 

The findings were intriguing. Horses that never reached EvA95 or above tended to have significantly better racing records (P < 0.01) and longer careers on the track compared with those that progressed further in eventing. In contrast, horses that achieved higher levels in eventing often came from more modest racing backgrounds. Another interesting trend was that the time elapsed since a horse’s last race was positively associated with most eventing parameters - suggesting that a longer adjustment period after racing may benefit performance in a second career. In addition, horses with a history of racing over longer distances were more likely to progress to higher eventing levels, perhaps reflecting the importance of endurance capacity.

 

The study concluded that while certain factors, such as stamina over longer distances, may point towards greater potential in eventing, racing performance alone is not a reliable predictor of eventing success. Other elements - including stride characteristics, trainability, and, crucially, the quality of the rider-horse partnership - play a vital role.

 

For riders and trainers seeking to source potential eventers from the racing industry, the message is clear: look beyond wins and earnings. Horses that may not have been stars on the track can often thrive in eventing, provided they have the right physical traits, temperament, and support during their transition.

 

For more details, see: 

 

Elouise K Bacon, Danica Parnell, Gary Muscatello, Jaimie McElroy, Brandon D Velie,

How prior racing performance influences competition level in off-the-track Thoroughbred horses’ post-racing eventing careers,

Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, (2025) Vol 154, 105679.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105679

Vets with Horsepower – 2025 Update

 In July 2025, Vets with Horsepower toured Italy, stopping in Lodi, Perugia, Ortueri, and Pisa.

 Over the course of the event, the team delivered more than 40 high-quality equine CPD lectures, amounting to 26 hours of learning, to vets both in Italy and worldwide via online streaming. 

The fundraising event in Pisa marked the conclusion of this year’s programme, and we are delighted to share that the recorded lectures are now available to watch online: 

Watch the 2025 Webinars:

https://www.vetswithhorsepower.com/2025webinars.html

Thanks to the generosity of supporters, over £100,000 has been raised and distributed to the team’s chosen charities – an incredible result! 

The team extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to achieving this milestone. 

Any further donations received through the website will be directed towards the charities supported during next year’s tour. Planning is already underway for 2026, with proposed stops in Germany, Poland, Latvia, and Estonia. Webinars will once again be recorded in Poland, and the team has a special focus on supporting vets working in Ukraine, alongside other important causes. 

Stay connected and follow their journey on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/VetswithHorsePower/

Systemic Immune-Inflammatory Index: A new non-invasive tool for predicting nematode infections in horses?

 Routine monitoring for gastrointestinal nematodes remains a cornerstone of equine health management.
Traditionally, diagnostic methods such as faecal egg counts (FEC) and faecal culture are used to assess infection status and guide treatment decisions. However, these approaches are not without limitations. FEC lacks sensitivity in detecting low-burden infections, may not reflect larval stages, and shows poor correlation between egg counts and actual worm burdens. Faecal cultures can help identify parasite species but are time-consuming and technically demanding. 

A recent study by Falmata Kyari and colleagues from the Departments of Veterinary Parasitology and Veterinary Medicine at the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria, explored whether a novel blood-based index could provide a more accurate, non-invasive, and cost-effective diagnostic option. Their work focused on the Systemic Immune-Inflammatory Index (SII), a parameter calculated from routine haematological values: platelet count, neutrophil count, and total white blood cell count.

 

The SII is a composite biomarker reflecting the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory immune responses. It is calculated as:

 

SII = (Platelet count × Neutrophil count) ÷ Total white blood cell count

 

In human medicine, SII has been widely studied as a prognostic marker for systemic inflammation, sepsis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer progression. Elevated values typically indicate heightened inflammatory activity and a poorer clinical outlook.

 

In horses, however, the application of SII as a diagnostic tool is still in its infancy. Kyari’s study represents one of the first attempts to apply this marker in equine parasitology.

 

The research team conducted a cross-sectional study involving 164 apparently healthy horses. All animals underwent clinical examination to confirm baseline health and were excluded if they had received recent anthelmintic treatment.

 

Blood and faecal samples were collected. Based on faecal egg counts and faecal culture, the horses were classified as Infected (n = 66) and Non-infected (n = 98).

 

The SII was then calculated for each horse using routine haematology. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to assess the diagnostic accuracy of SII in predicting nematode infection status.

 

Key Findings:

 

• Prevalence: Overall nematode prevalence was 40.2%. Interestingly, cyathostomin infections were detected in only 14 horses (7 single infections and 7 mixed), a figure much lower than typically reported in temperate regions. This discrepancy may reflect climatic influences, differences in parasite ecology, or management and deworming practices in Nigerian equine populations.
• Infection severity: Horses with mixed nematode infections carried the heaviest burdens, averaging 1,805 ± 293 eggs per gram (epg). Cyathostomum spp. infections were particularly striking, with mean egg counts of 2,264 ± 133 epg.
• SII values: Surprisingly, SII values were lower in infected horses (0.06) compared to non-infected horses (0.19), a reversal of the pattern seen in human inflammatory conditions. This suggests that equine immune regulation during nematode infection may differ fundamentally from human responses.
• Correlation with egg counts: There was a significant negative correlation between SII and epg (r = -0.6023; P < 0.0001).
• Diagnostic performance: The SII demonstrated exceptional predictive accuracy, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.990. An SII cut-off value of ≤0.108 offered 98.5% sensitivity and 100% specificity, validated by a high Youden index of 0.985.

 

This study suggests that SII, derived from simple blood parameters already included in routine haematology panels, could serve as a powerful adjunct tool for diagnosing nematode infections in horses.

 

However, certain caveats remain. The study was region-specific, and prevalence data differ markedly from findings in Europe and North America, where cyathostomins are often the dominant nematodes. Furthermore, the inverse SII response compared to human data highlights the need for further research into equine-specific immune mechanisms.

 

The work of Kyari and colleagues supports the potential of the Systemic Immune-Inflammatory Index as a novel diagnostic tool for nematode infections in horses. If validated across different populations and climates, SII could help veterinarians identify infected animals more reliably, enabling targeted anthelmintic treatment and better parasite management strategies.

 

For more details, see: 

Kyari F, Pogu CJ, Mairiga IA, Adamu L. 

The use of systemic immune inflammatory index as a predictor for nematodes infections in horses. 

Parasite Epidemiol Control. (2025) 30:e00453. 

doi: 10.1016/j.parepi.2025.e00453 

How diet affects horse’s teeth: new research on sugar, forage, and oral health

(c) Chelle129 Dreamstime.com

When it comes to dental health, most of us are familiar with the warnings for children: too many
fizzy drinks and sweets can quickly lead to cavities. But what about horses? Does the sugar content of their diet also affect their teeth in a similar way?

Recent research from Milena Lacerenza and colleagues at the University of São Paulo and São Paulo State University in Brazil has shed light on just how important diet is in shaping the oral microbiota (the community of microorganisms in the mouth) and in influencing the development of dental caries (tooth decay) in horses.

In many parts of the world, horse owners are turning to silages and forages with a higher sugar content, such as sugarcane, as a cheap and readily available alternative to traditional forage. While sugarcane may seem like a convenient option, this study raises important questions about what happens inside the horse’s mouth when diets are high in soluble carbohydrates.

For comparison, the researchers looked at horses fed sugarcane versus those grazing on Cynodon spp. (pasture grass also known as Bermudagrass or star grass) which is more in line with the kind of forage horses evolved to eat. It is worth noting, however, thatthe study didn’t account for differences in hard feed or supplements.

The team worked with twenty healthy horses, mixed in age, sex, and breed, with an average age of nine years. Half of these horses had been fed sugarcane as their main roughage for at least three years, while the others had been maintained on Cynodon pasture for the same period. Each horse received a detailed dental examination using an oral endoscope to identify caries and abnormal gaps between teeth (diastemata), and saliva samples were taken to analyse the bacterial communities present in the mouth.

The results were clear: horses fed sugarcane had far more problems with tooth decay than those kept on grass. They not only showed a significantly higher presence of peripheral caries, but also had more cases of diastemata, which can trap food and create further complications.

Interestingly, while the overall diversity of oral bacteria remained similar between the two groups, the types of bacteria dominating the mouth were very different. Sugar-fed horses showed higher levels of Candidatus Saccharibacteria and Bacteroidetes, both associated with disease. In contrast, the grass-fed horses had more Cyanobacteria Chloroplast and Proteobacteria, which seemed to play a more protective role. In fact, more than 35 different bacterial genera were found to vary significantly depending on diet, underlining how strongly forage choices shape the microbial balance in the horse’s mouth.

Horses evolved to graze on fibrous, low-sugar grasses, and their teeth and mouths are adapted to this diet. Feeding forages that are rich in sugar may upset this natural balance, encouraging harmful bacteria to thrive and putting horses at greater risk of painful dental problems. Caries in horses are far from harmless: they can lead to discomfort when eating, difficulty chewing, food packing between the teeth, infections, and even weight loss if left untreated.

This research highlights how closely diet, oral bacteria, and dental disease are linked, and it reinforces the importance of choosing forages that support not only the digestive system but also the long-term comfort and health of the horse’s mouth.

For more details, see: 

Lacerenza, Milena Domingues, Júlia de Assis Arantes, Gustavo Morandini Reginato, Gabriela Luiza Fagundes Finardi, Pedro Henrique Marchi, Thiago Henrique Annibale Vendramini, Rodrigo Romero Corrêa, Pamela Aparecida Maldaner Pereira, Carlos Augusto Araújo Valadão, and Renata Gebara Sampaio Dória. (2025). Microbiome and Dental Changes in Horses Fed a High Soluble Carbohydrate Diet

 Animals 15, no. 17: 2547. 

https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15172547

Measuring grazing behaviour in horses with sound recorders

Recording how much time horses spend grazing is an important part of many behavioural studies. Traditionally, this has been done through direct observation or video recordings, but these methods are time-consuming and labour-intensive.

Researchers at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh (Daisy Taylor and Bryony Lancaster), together with Andrea Ellis of UNEQUI Ltd, Cornwall, have tested a simpler alternative: using small sound recorders attached to horses’ headcollars. These devices capture the sounds of chewing and biting, offering a low-cost and less labour-intensive way of measuring grass intake behaviour.

The studies

• Pilot Study 1: One Icelandic pony in Shetland was recorded for short periods. Chews and bites per minute measured from sound recordings closely matched counts from video observation.
• Pilot Study 2: Two ponies were observed directly while wearing sound recorders. Grazing times from the devices strongly matched visual observations.
• Main Study: Three ponies were monitored in semi-feral conditions over several days. Sound recordings and visual observations again showed very similar results.

Key findings

• Sound recorders accurately measured chews, bites, and grazing time.
• Results remained reliable across different seasons and weather conditions.
• The devices did not interfere with the horses’ natural behaviour.

Conclusion

Sound recorders attached to headcollars provide a reliable, affordable, and non-invasive method of recording grazing behaviour in horses. They could be used in both research and practical settings, helping to:

• Measure foraging behaviour in pasture or stabled horses.
• Compare chewing and biting across different feeds and breeds.
• Monitor welfare by assessing whether horses’ foraging needs are being met.
• Detect possible issues such as oral stereotypies or dental problems.

This method offers an effective alternative to visual observation, saving time and effort while providing accurate data on equine grazing behaviour.

 

For more details, see: 

Taylor, Daisy E. F., Bryony E. Lancaster, and Andrea D. Ellis. 2025. 

The Use of Sound Recorders to Remotely Measure Grass Intake Behaviour in Horses

 Animals 15, no. 15: 2273. 

https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152273

Equine health and quality of life research project

Horse owners and caretakers are being invited to participate in a new research project designed
to improve equine health and wellbeing. The project focuses on developing a questionnaire to measure health-related quality of life (HRQL) in horses.

 

Zoetis, in collaboration with VetMetrica, is leading this initiative. The work builds on many years of pain research carried out at the University of Glasgow, where similar HRQL instruments have already been successfully developed for dogs and cats. These tools are now licensed for use by veterinary surgeons in clinical practice and trials, enabling them to monitor how animals are feeling and assess the effects of health conditions on quality of life. Following the success of these tools for dogs and cats, the same approach is now being extended to horses.

 

The researchers explain that their primary focus is on chronic conditions, such as arthritis or chronic laminitis, which are long-term health problems that may persist continuously or flare up periodically. This differs from acute conditions, such as colic or injury, which tend to arise suddenly but are usually short-lived. By concentrating on chronic conditions, the study aims to capture the ongoing impact of these issues on horses’ daily lives and wellbeing.

 

As part of the project, the research team has compiled a list of words and phrases commonly used to describe horses when they are well or unwell. Horse owners are now being asked to complete a survey to help evaluate the clarity and relevance of these terms. Their input will contribute directly to the development of a practical and effective tool for monitoring equine quality of life.

 

“The survey results will support the development and validity of our new measurement tool”, said Prof Jacky Reid, “especially when used in horses living with chronic conditions like arthritis or laminitis where their quality of life is significantly compromised.”

 

All responses are anonymous and used solely for research. 

For more details, see:

https://zoetis.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5mq13ASuyVTAqLc?Q_CHL=qr

 

For further information contact Dr Cory Noble at cory.noble@zoetis.com

Could salivary biomarkers help detect Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS)

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 Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is a common problem in horses, affecting many disciplines and management systems. Currently, the only reliable way to diagnose EGUS is by gastroscopy – passing a flexible camera into the stomach to look for ulcers.

EGUS is divided into:

• Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD): ulcers in the upper, squamous portion of the stomach.
• Equine Glandular Gastric Disease (EGGD): ulcers in the lower, glandular portion.

The two forms have different likely causes and may require different management approaches.

While gastroscopy is the gold standard, it has some downsides: it requires specialist equipment, sedation, and a 12–16 hour fast. This can be costly and stressful for both horse and owner.

 

Dr. Marta Matas-Quintanilla and her team investigated whether five biomarkers in saliva could help identify EGUS:

• IL1-F5 - an immune-related protein.
• PIP (prolactin-inducible protein) - linked to immune and inflammatory processes.
• CA VI (carbonic anhydrase VI) - involved in saliva pH regulation.
• Serotransferrin - a protein that transports iron in the blood.
• Albumin - a major blood protein that can appear in saliva during inflammation or injury. 

Saliva is easy to collect, requires no needles, causes minimal stress, and can be taken by someone with basic handling skills; all big advantages for screening horses in the field.

 

The researchers measured these markers in three groups of adult horses, using validated sandwich ELISA tests (high precision and accuracy):

• No EGUS:  22 horses (3 - 20 years old) with no signs of EGUS and a clean gastroscopy.
• EGUS Non-Clinical: 28 horses (3 -14 years old) with no obvious signs, but ulcers seen on gastroscopy. Of these, 6 had ESGD, 11 had EGGD, and 11 had both types.
• EGUS Clinical: 37 horses (3 -18 years old) with obvious EGUS signs (e.g., poor performance, girthiness, changes in appetite or behaviour) and ulcers confirmed by gastroscopy. Of these, 9 had ESGD, 8 had EGGD, and 11 had both. Nine suspected horses with no ulcers on gastroscopy were excluded. 

The research team found that:

• IL1-F5, CA VI, serotransferrin, and albumin were significantly higher in EGUS clinical horses compared to No EGUS horses.
• PIP levels didn’t differ much between No EGUS and EGUS clinical horses.
• EGUS non-clinical horses showed differences in PIP and albumin compared to No EGUS horses.

They report that these markers could moderately distinguish between healthy and ulcer-affected horses, with sensitivity >77% and specificity >65%. The results suggest that measuring certain biomarkers in saliva could one day become a practical screening tool for EGUS. This would be especially useful for:

• Selecting which horses to send for gastroscopy.
• Monitoring horses at risk over time.
• Reducing unnecessary invasive procedures.

 

While gastroscopy will remain the definitive diagnostic method for now, salivary biomarkers offer a promising step toward faster, cheaper, and non-invasive detection of this common condition.

 

For more details, see: 

 

Matas-Quintanilla, Marta, Lynsey Whitacre, Ignacio R. Ipharraguerre, Cándido Gutiérrez-Panizo, and Ana M. Gutiérrez. 2025.

Assessment of Salivary Biomarkers of Gastric Ulcer in Horses from a Clinical Perspective

Animals 15, no. 15: 2251. 

https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152251

Study finds widespread contaminants in horse feed across the EU

 A recent study by the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, has found that contaminants posing potential health risks are widespread in commercially available horse feeds across the EU.

While the equine feed market offers a wide range of products tailored to different nutritional needs, feedstuffs can also carry contaminants such as fungal and bacterial toxins. Limited knowledge of how frequently such contamination occurs prompted researchers to investigate exposure levels and their possible health implications.

The study analysed 108 horse feed samples from EU suppliers, spanning hay, processed roughage, grains, and supplementary feeds. Each sample was screened for more than 1,200 compounds, including mycotoxins, phytoestrogens, pesticides, and veterinary drug residues, using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

Findings showed contamination was highly prevalent: 107 of 108 samples (99%) contained fungal metabolites, with fusarium toxins the most common. Bacterial metabolites were detected in 16% of samples, and veterinary drug residues in a further 16%, though concentrations were generally low. 

Processed roughage products, particularly those containing lucerne (alfalfa), had significantly higher concentrations of phytoestrogens and plant toxins compared with hay. Grain-based mueslis and mashes were more likely to contain pesticide and veterinary medication residues. Notably, monensin (an anti-coccidial drug used in poultry feed) and colchicine, both highly toxic to horses, were detected in 10–20% of samples, though at levels considered too low to pose an acute health risk.

The authors conclude that the findings highlight the complexity of biotoxins and chemical residues in equine feeds and emphasise the need for stronger regulation and routine testing to safeguard equine health and welfare.

For more details see: 

L.M. Kwaß, R. Khiaosa-ard, Q. Zebeli, M. Sulyok, V. Milojevic, B.U. Metzler-Zebeli,

Exposure of horses to biotoxins, phytoestrogens, and pesticides from different feed materials and supplementary feeds,

Journal of Equine Veterinary Science,(2025) Vol 151,105632,

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jevs.2025.105632

Horses Inside Out Conference 2026

 Gillian Higgins has announced the 2026 Horses Inside Out Conference, with early bird tickets now available.

The conference will focus on Soundness and Symmetry in the Horse - the balance and harmony of the musculoskeletal system and its impact on movement. Across the programme, speakers will explore what soundness and symmetry mean in practice, how training and management can support them, and the challenges that may arise along the way.

Designed for professionals and equestrians from all disciplines, the event offers a rare opportunity to hear from world-leading experts, share the latest research, and consider practical applications to improve the health, welfare, training, and performance of horses.

The 2026 conference will differ from previous years with a three-day structure: two days of presentations followed by a practical day. The first two days, held at Holywell Park Conference Centre, Loughborough University (UK), will feature lectures from leading equine professionals on anatomy, biomechanics, training, and therapy. The third day, will focus on Soundness and Symmetry in Practice, with live demonstrations and practical sessions led by guest experts.

For more details, see: 

https://www.hioconference.com

EVJ Special Focus: Advances in Diagnosing and Treating Musculoskeletal Disorders in Sport Horses

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Musculoskeletal problems are one of the main reasons sport horses lose training time, underperform, or retire early. 

The latest Equine Veterinary Journal (EVJ) Special Focus, edited by Maarten Oosterlinck and Rhiannon Morgan with guest editors Kyla Ortved and Hilary Clayton, gathers 21 studies from leading researchers to explore causes, diagnostic advances, and treatments for these conditions. The section is divided into three themes: aetiology, diagnostics, and therapeutics. There is also a podcast summarising the work.

Understanding Causes and Risk Factors

Osteochondrosis (OC), the most common developmental orthopaedic disease in horses, is linked to vascular failure in growing cartilage. Olstad summarises over a decade of research showing how this process can lead to different OC presentations, including osteochondritis dissecans.

In eventing, Cameron-Whytock et al. report that 36% of equine fatalities over 25 years were due to musculoskeletal injuries, mostly during cross-country. Lameness patterns in Australian campdraft horses, studied by Argue and Labens, showed 53% forelimb and 41% hindlimb involvement.

Spinal health is another focus. Spoormakers et al. found Warmbloods had higher rates of thoracic vertebral lesions (including osteoarthritis and kissing spines) than smaller breeds. Patricio et al. note that early detection and targeted rehabilitation for spinal articular dysfunction can extend performance careers.

Suspensory ligament (SL) injury remains a common problem, and Guest et al. review its anatomy, function, and variable treatment outcomes.

Advances in Diagnostics

Taddey et al. used inertial measurement units (IMUs) to quantify head and withers movement asymmetry, showing that even sound horses aren’t perfectly symmetrical.

Hansen et al. describe a new chronic myopathy in Icelandic horses causing poor performance and multi-limb lameness. For osteoarthritis (OA), Anderson et al. used metabolomic and proteomic profiling of synovial fluid to identify potential early diagnostic markers.

CT technology is expanding: Ogden et al. detail imaging the proximal limb and spine, while Hellige et al. explore CT myelography for detecting spinal cord compression. New standing CT techniques allow hoof imaging (Szabó et al.) and comparison with MRI for distal limb evaluation (Nagy et al.). MRI studies also include DDFT injuries (Scharf et al.) and proximal interphalangeal joint ligaments (Peeters et al.), as well as comparing MRI and radiography for hoof measurements (Bowkett-Pritchard et al.).

Treatment Innovations

Seery et al. assess how trimming affects hoof balance and load distribution, with implications for injury prevention. For SDFT tendinopathy, Blatter et al. report outcomes of tenoscopic desmotomy in Warmbloods. In back surgery, Connaughton et al. compare caudal and cranial wedge ostectomy for treating kissing spines.

Regenerative therapies are also advancing: Munevar Luque et al. test equine umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells combined with hyaluronic acid, showing promising results compared to HA alone.

“This special focus brings together the latest science and knowledge on multiple aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of Musculoskeletal disorders in sport horses” said Maarten Oosterlinck, deputy editor of the EVJ. “The practical, evidence-based studies present imperative reading for veterinary practitioners, to support their goal of providing the most advanced diagnostics and therapeutic approaches for sport horses with musculoskeletal issues.”  

 

The EVJ special focus issue on Musculoskeletal disorders in Sport horses can be found here:

 https://beva.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/20423306/2025/57/5

 

The podcast in which the editors discuss the issue can be found here: 

https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-yhq98-1928df1

New blood test could help track muscle recovery in racehorses

A new blood test could make it easier for trainers and vets to monitor how well a racehorse recovers after a race, and help prevent muscle injuries that can derail performance or even end a career.

Researchers from Proteomics International and the University of Western Australia, led by Dr. Christopher James, have developed a simple, stable test that uses a dried blood spot - just a small drop of blood on paper - to measure a specific marker of muscle damage and recovery.

 

The patented OxiDx test looks at a substance in the blood called thiol-oxidised albumin, a marker of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when the body’s natural balance is tipped during intense exercise or illness, and it plays a key role in inflammation and muscle repair.

 

In both humans and animals, higher levels of thiol-oxidised albumin have been linked to muscle damage following hard physical activity. Unlike older tests, such as measuring creatine kinase (CK), this new method is proving to be more sensitive and may detect early or low-level muscle strain that other tests miss.

 

Blood samples were collected from thoroughbred racehorses before and for seven days after racing. Trainers collected the dried blood spot samples at their stables, making the process simple and stress-free. The researchers also took liquid blood samples on Days 2 and 5 after the race to measure standard muscle enzymes (CK and AST).

 

The test results showed that thiol-oxidised albumin peaked 2 days after the race, increasing by an average of nearly 4%. Levels generally returned to normal by Day 5, though some horses recovered more quickly or slowly, highlighting individual differences in recovery.

 

The new test also showed a relationship with AST, another muscle-related blood marker.

 

Muscle injuries are very common in racehorses. Studies show that up to 85% of thoroughbreds will suffer at least one injury during their 2- or 3-year-old seasons. Often, the signs of muscle strain or damage are subtle or go unnoticed, but continuing to train or race with underlying injuries can lead to reduced performance, more serious muscle damage, such as strains or tears. These may lead to longer recovery times or being withdrawn from competition altogether.

 

This new test offers a practical way to monitor recovery after each race, helping trainers and vets make better decisions about when a horse is ready to return to training or racing.

 

This research, published in the journal Veterinary Science and Medicine, suggests that thiol-oxidised albumin could become an important tool for managing recovery and preventing injury in hard-working racehorses.

 

By tracking how muscle stress builds and resolves after racing, trainers and vets may be able to spot horses that need more rest, or identify those who recover quickly and are ready to safely return to work.

 

As the racing industry increasingly focuses on welfare, performance longevity, and injury prevention, this test may offer a way to keep horses healthy and at their best.

 

Proteomics International Managing Director Dr Richard Lipscombe said, “these exciting results mark a significant milestone in applying the OxiDx test to equine veterinary medicine. OxiDx has the potential to empower trainers to monitor muscle recovery with precision, helping their racehorses achieve peak performance while prioritising equine health and well-being.”

The company plan to launch the OxiDx test in Australia later this year

 

For more details, see:

 

The level of thiol-oxidised plasma albumin is elevated following a race in Australian Thoroughbred horses

Christopher James, Erin M. Lloyd, Peter G. Arthur

 Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (2025)

https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.70487

Does obesity influence inflammatory responses in horses with equine asthma?

(c) Abby Khoriaty Dreamstime.com

 Equine asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects many horses, particularly those kept in stabled
environments or exposed to dust and allergens. It is characterised by airway inflammation (primarily driven by neutrophils)  leading to symptoms such as coughing, nasal discharge, and laboured breathing. Inflammatory flare-ups can significantly impair lung function and reduce performance.

 At the same time, equine obesity is becoming increasingly prevalent among domestic horses, largely due to overfeeding, limited exercise, and modern management practices. Obesity is already known to affect metabolic health and immune function in other species, including humans. This raises an important question: Could excess body fat make equine asthma worse by altering how the immune system responds to inflammation?

 A research team led by Alejandro Albornoz at the Universidad Austral de Chile set out to investigate whether obesity influences the inflammatory profile of horses with equine asthma. Their study, published in the open-access journal Animals, focused specifically on neutrophils - the white blood cells central to the airway inflammation seen in asthmatic horses.

 The researchers compared two groups of asthmatic horses that were in clinical remission (i.e. not experiencing active symptoms). The horses were divided into obese and non-obese groups, based on their body condition scores (BCS). Blood samples were taken to assess systemic inflammatory markers and to analyse how the horses’ neutrophils responded to immune challenges in the lab.

The results showed clear differences between the two groups:

• ·       Obese horses had significantly higher blood levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), a potent inflammatory cytokine involved in many immune responses.
• ·       They also had increased peripheral neutrophil counts, indicating a more active systemic inflammatory state.

When stimulated in the lab, neutrophils from obese horses:

• ·       Produced more reactive oxygen species, a marker of a strong oxidative response.
• ·       Showed greater expression of IL-1β genes after exposure to inflammatory triggers (such as lipopolysaccharide).

These responses point to a hyperinflammatory neutrophil phenotype - meaning these immune cells were more reactive and potentially more damaging to lung tissue if activated in the horse’s airways.

To better understand these changes, the team also conducted metabolomic profiling of the neutrophils - essentially examining the small molecules and biochemical pathways active within the cells.

They identified 139 different metabolites, and found key differences in:

• ·       Fatty acid biosynthesis
• ·       Branched-chain amino acid metabolism
• ·       Glutathione-related antioxidant pathways
• ·       Tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates

In particular, levels of itaconate, citraconic acid, and citrate were significantly elevated in the obese group. These molecules are known to regulate immune cell activity, and their presence suggests a state of metabolic reprogramming that primes neutrophils for a heightened inflammatory response.

The researchers conclude that obesity alters neutrophil metabolism and function in horses with asthma, making these immune cells more reactive to inflammatory stimuli. This may contribute to more persistent or severe airway inflammation, potentially making the disease harder to control. 

The findings highlight the importance of addressing obesity as part of asthma management. Controlling body condition may reduce systemic inflammation and help prevent disease flare-ups. The study also opens the door to future therapies that target neutrophil metabolism as a way to modulate inflammation in chronic equine diseases.

For more details, see:

Albornoz, Alejandro, Beatriz Morales, Valentina Bernal Fernandez, Claudio Henriquez, John Quiroga, Pablo Alarcón, Gabriel Moran, and Rafael A. Burgos. 

Obesity-associated metabolomic and functional reprogramming in neutrophils from horses with asthma

Animals (2025) 15, no. 13: 1992. 

https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15131992