Has Your Horse Got a Hearing Problem? Signs & Diagnosis Guide

Most riders have trouble hearing what a trainer may be saying on a blustery day when exercising their horses in an outdoor arena. But little thought is often given to the possibility that horses themselves might be experiencing hearing problems.

Horses are known for their keen sense of hearing, aided by 16 muscles that allow their ears to move independently to pinpoint sounds. However, just like humans, horses can develop hearing loss or deafness. Although relatively uncommon, hearing problems can impact how a horse behaves, performs, and interacts with its environment. This guide will help you recognise the signs of hearing loss in horses, understand possible causes, and know when professional diagnosis is needed.

How to Tell If Your Horse Has Hearing Issues

A simple test to check your horse's hearing is to clap your hands once to observe their response. If your horse responds promptly by moving its ears or head towards the sound, it likely has normal hearing. However, horses require full hearing in both ears to accurately locate sounds. A horse with partial hearing loss may hear noises but struggle to identify where they are coming from.

This inability to localise sounds can cause anxiety and stress, leading to behaviours such as being easily startled, unruly when handled or ridden, and prone to sudden flight reactions. A common scenario is when a horse is placed in a new environment unfamiliar to them – strange noises can provoke stress if the horse cannot pinpoint their source.

Common Signs Your Horse May Have Hearing Loss

• Startling or spooking without apparent reason, despite vocal reassurances
• Not responding to your voice or cues consistently
• Shaking or rubbing their head or ears regularly
• Ears drooping or showing signs of discomfort
• Changes in overall behaviour, becoming more anxious or defensive

Causes of Hearing Loss in Horses

Several conditions can cause hearing loss, including:

Age-Related Hearing Decline

As horses get older, usually from 15 years of age, some decline in hearing ability can be expected. This is a natural part of ageing and may be gradual.

Ear Parasites and Infections

Parasites such as mites, ticks, and other insects may infest the ear canal, leading to inflammation and discomfort that can impair hearing. Ear infections and otitis media can also damage inner ear structures.

Injuries and Trauma

Head injuries or sound trauma can cause damage to hearing structures.

Genetic and Congenital Conditions

Some horses are born deaf or susceptible to congenital sensorineural deafness, especially certain breeds with characteristic coat colours or blue eyes.

Specific Diseases

Conditions like temporohyoid osteoarthropathy – a bony growth near the middle ear – can cause deafness, as well as multifocal brain diseases and hypoxic injuries.

How Is Hearing Loss Diagnosed in Horses?

If you suspect your horse has a hearing problem, a veterinarian can perform several tests to determine the cause and extent. Tests may include:

• Sound Response Tests: Clapping or using loud noises to observe behavioural responses.
• Neurological Evaluations: Assessing the horse's ability to locate sounds.
• Endoscopy: Examination of inner ear structures using an endoscope, often done with sedation or general anaesthetic for comfort.
• Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) Test: Electrodes detect electrical activity in response to sound signals, providing an objective measure of hearing.

Caring for a Horse with Hearing Loss

While some causes of hearing loss may be irreversible, early diagnosis helps manage your horse’s well-being better. Maintain excellent ear hygiene, control parasites with veterinary-approved treatments, and reduce stressful situations where hearing impairment could be a liability. Horses with hearing loss often adapt well in familiar environments but require sensitive handling in new settings.

Conclusion

Hearing problems in horses are not very common but can significantly affect their behaviour and safety. Recognising the subtle signs and seeking professional diagnosis early gives your horse the best chance of effective management or recovery. Regular veterinary check-ups and good ear care routines are key to keeping your horse’s hearing sharp and ensuring a happy, confident companion.

Responsible ownership includes being aware that horses may lose some of their hearing during life. If you suspect issues, consult your vet promptly to safeguard your horse’s health and performance.

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