Horses, members of the equine family, are mammals appreciated for their grace, strength and intelligence. They have played essential roles throughout human history, from aiding work and transportation to their use in warfare and recreation. Horses come in different breeds, from small to large, each with their unique characteristics.
They are herbivores with a complex digestive system adapted to a plant-based diet. Horses have hierarchical social behavior, with a dominant leader in each group. Their communication is primarily through body signals and vocalizations.
Today, horses are primarily used for recreational riding, equestrian sports, equine-assisted therapy, and even as pets. However, their maintenance and care require expertise to guarantee their well-being and health.
Yes, horses can be affectionate towards their owners and people with whom they have established close bonds. However, their expression of affection is different from more traditional pets like dogs and cats. Horses show affection by leaning slightly toward their owner, willingly following them, and accepting physical contact, such as petting and scratching. Each horse has its own personality, and some may be more inclined to show affection than others. Patience, trust and consistency in interactions with the horse are essential to strengthen emotional bonds.
The horse may be considered a pet in some cultures and regions of the world, but it differs from more traditional domestic animals like dogs and cats. Horses are often associated with sporting, leisure activities or agricultural work, which means they generally have a more utilitarian role than that of pets. However, many people develop strong, loving bonds with their horses, viewing them as partners and close friends. The care and maintenance of a horse can be demanding, and it is important to provide a suitable environment and meet their needs to ensure their well-being.
Horses possess many qualities valued by humans, including strength, loyalty, docility and intelligence. They are also known for their agility, speed, and ability to learn various tasks. Horses can form close bonds with their owners and are often used in sporting, recreational and therapeutic activities due to their calm nature and cooperative behavior. Their sense of observation and sensitivity to subtle signals from their environment make them valuable partners in various situations.
A horse’s character can vary greatly from one individual to another, just like in humans. Some horse breeds are known for their calm and docile temperaments, while others can be more energetic and spirited. Early socialization and training play an important role in the development of a horse’s character. A gentle, consistent and positive approach in training can help shape the horse’s behavior. Interactions with humans and the environment in which they live also have an influence on their character.
Care for a horse includes providing proper nutrition, shelter, exercise, grooming, regular medical care, and attention to its mental and emotional health. Horses require a balanced diet primarily consisting of hay or grass, as well as clean water at all times. They should be dewormed regularly and have access to dental care. Daily exercise is essential to maintain their physical and mental health. Grooming includes brushing the coat, cleaning the hooves, and controlling parasites. Owners should watch for signs of illness or pain and consult a veterinarian if any concerns arise.
To maintain a healthy horse, it is essential to provide a balanced diet, appropriate shelter, regular dental care, a deworming program, daily exercise and attention to emotional well-being. Regular visits to the veterinarian for vaccinations and health checkups are also crucial. It is important to provide a clean and safe environment, watch for signs of illness or pain, and respond quickly if a health problem arises. Horse owners should also ensure that their animals are protected against internal and external parasites.
The cost of maintaining a horse varies depending on many factors, including geographic region, equipment needed, quality of food, medical care, housing and infrastructure maintenance. In general, horses require a significant financial investment for their food, medical care and housing. Ongoing costs include food, hay, bedding, veterinary care, dewormers, farrier fees, grooming and exercise equipment, and equine insurance. Owners should also consider upfront costs such as purchasing the horse, equipment, shelter and fencing. It is important to budget carefully to ensure that maintaining a horse is financially viable.
Grass sickness, also known as atypical myopathy, is a serious and often fatal condition affecting horses grazing on certain grasslands. This rare but devastating disease is caused by the consumption of plants containing specific toxins, such ashypoglycin A found in the seeds of certain maples. Affected horses show a range of symptoms, from muscle weakness … Read more
The summer period is characterised by dry, hot and sunny weather, which can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of horses. High temperatures, dusty environments, hard ground and increased exposure to UV rays can have a negative effect on equines, especially those living outdoors. In addition, summer marks the proliferation of winged … Read more
Mycotoxins, toxic compounds produced by certain species of fungi, represent a serious threat to equine health. Found in cereals, forage and other contaminated feed, they can cause a range of health problems in horses, from digestive and respiratory disorders to immunosuppressive and hepatotoxic effects. Chronic exposure to mycotoxins can lead to serious illness, reducing horses’ … Read more
Equine influenza, a highly contagious respiratory disease, can have a major economic impact on the equine industry. Protecting the health of your horses through a thorough understanding of this disease is essential. What causes this disease? Equine influenza, caused by a type A influenza virus, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. Two subtypes, H7N7 and … Read more
Equine rhinopneumonitis is a highly contagious viral disease that affects around 65% of horses in France. Caused by two types of herpes virus (HVE-1 and HVE-4), this infection can lead to respiratory and nervous problems, as well as abortions. What causes this disease? Equine rhinopneumonitis is caused by two equine-specific herpes viruses: equine herpesvirus type … Read more
Strangles is a highly contagious respiratory disease that mainly affects young horses. Caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subsp. equi, it leads to severe complications and can have significant economic consequences. What causes this disease? Strangles is an infection of the upper respiratory tract of horses, caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi subspecies equi, a … Read more
Tetanus is a serious bacterial disease that mainly affects horses. The bacterium Clostridium tetani produces a potentially fatal neurotoxin, causing uncontrollable muscle spasms. Horses are particularly susceptible to this infection, which can often be fatal. What causes this disease? Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This anaerobic bacterium develops in the absence of … Read more
Australian harper, also known as stringhalt, is a neurological condition affecting horses, characterised by involuntary and abnormally exaggerated contractions of the extensor muscles of the hind limbs. Although rare, this condition has a significant impact on the locomotion and general well-being of the horses affected. Theaetiology of Australian Harper remains uncertain, but experts suspect environmental, … Read more
Cracks in horses are a common and often painful condition. They mainly appear in winter, caused by dampness and cold, and particularly affect horses living in pasture. This article explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, available treatments, natural alternatives and ways of preventing chapping in horses. What causes this condition? Crevices are deep irritations located in … Read more
The health of horses’ hooves is crucial to their general well-being and performance. Among the common ailments, white line disease represents a particular challenge. This condition is characterised by a detachment of the foot wall, creating a favourable environment for infection. What causes this condition? White line disease in horses is mainly due to a … Read more
Seime is a common condition in horses that can have serious consequences for their well-being and performance. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods and treatments available is essential for any horse owner. What causes this condition? A seime is a longitudinal crack in the hoof horn. It is often caused by dryness of the horn, … Read more
Bleeding, a common but often misunderstood condition in horses, causes bruising under the hoof horn. These bruises cause significant pain and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods and treatments available for bleeding. We will also look at natural alternatives and preventative measures … Read more
Navicular syndrome, also known as podotrochlear syndrome, is a dreaded condition among horse riders and owners. The condition causes chronic lameness and can lead to premature retirement of affected horses. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options is crucial to the effective management of this condition. What causes this disease? Navicular syndrome is a … Read more
In the management of tendonitis, it is crucial to support recovery with proper care and nutrition. Herbal supplements to promote healing can be added to the horse’s diet. For example, clay poultices are often used to aid healing and reduce inflammation caused by tendonitis. Nutritherapy Key nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are essential to … Read more
The management and treatment of tendonitis in horses requires a rigorous, tailored approach. Tendonitis, often caused by stress or trauma, mainly affects the superficial and deep flexor tendons. Early detection, followed by appropriate management, is crucial to minimise damage and promote healing. This article explores the essential steps in diagnosis, effective treatment methods and rehabilitation … Read more
Tendinopathies represent a significant category of musculoskeletal injuries in sport horses, affecting their performance and general well-being. These pathologies are characterised by damage to the tendons, often caused by repetitive mechanical overload, trauma or biomechanical abnormalities. The most commonly affected tendons include the superficial flexor tendon of the finger (TFSD) and the deep flexor tendon … Read more
Uveitis, one of the most common eye diseases in horses, is a major cause of blindness. Characterised by painful inflammation of the uvea, this recurring disease poses a significant challenge for horse owners. What causes this disease? Uveitis in horses manifests itself as inflammation of the uvea, the vascular part of the eye made up … Read more
Lymphangitis is a serious condition that can affect horses of all breeds and ages. Often caused by a bacterial infection, the condition manifests itself as severe and painful swelling of the limbs. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of lymphangitis is essential to the health and well-being of your horse. What causes lymphangitis? Lymphangitis … Read more
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is an increasingly common condition in recreational and sport horses, characterised by obesity, insulin resistance and repeated episodes of laminitis. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnostic methods and treatments of this disease is essential for owners and vets to ensure the well-being of equines. In this article, we will explore every aspect … Read more
Laminitis is a serious condition of equine hooves, often linked to other diseases. This condition, which can be fatal, requires immediate attention and appropriate care. What causes this condition? Foot problems are the main cause of lameness in older horses. Laminitis remains the most frequently diagnosed condition. A statistically significant association has been demonstrated between … Read more