How To Determine if Your Horse is in Pain: 6 Key Signs

Recognising when a horse is in pain can be challenging, especially since horses often mask discomfort due to their nature as prey animals. Many times, what may seem like bad behaviour—such as pinned-back ears, tail swishing, or bucking—can actually be signs indicating that your horse is hurting.

Experienced equine handlers learn to read horses’ body language and facial expressions to spot subtle signals of pain, while those less familiar may mistakenly label their horse as naughty. Understanding these signs is crucial for prompt care, whether that means consulting a vet, dentist, or blacksmith and administering appropriate treatment.

1. Recognising Obvious Signs of Pain

The most apparent indication of pain in horses is lameness or an unsound gait. This may be caused by conditions like corns, abscesses, or foreign objects embedded in the hoof. Such issues not only cause significant pain but can also lead to infections if untreated. Veterinarians and farriers play a key role in diagnosing and treating lameness.

However, sometimes lameness is intermittent or elusive, making diagnosis difficult. Persistent subtle lameness should not be overlooked as it often means underlying pain or discomfort.

2. Noticing Subtle Signs and Behavioural Changes

Sometimes pain manifests in less obvious ways, such as a short step or uneven gait that comes and goes. Owners may accept this as normal for their horse, overlooking the possibility of pain. Behaviours like bucking, dropping a shoulder, or refusal to move forward can suggest discomfort, especially in the back, mouth, or feet.

Common causes include ill-fitting tack, such as saddles or bits, or shoes left on too long. These factors may cause chronic pain and negatively affect your horse’s willingness to work.

3. Four Key Signs Your Horse Might Be in Pain

Watch out for these four critical signs indicating pain:

• Decrease in movement or activity: Your horse may lag behind their companions at pasture or avoid favourite activities like rolling.
• Lowered head carriage: Standing with the head lower than the knees is an urgent sign and requires veterinary attention.
• Vacant stare: A horse staring off into the distance, uninterested in surroundings, is often in discomfort.
• Reluctance to move: Stiffness or refusal to leave the stable or move freely signals pain.

4. Understanding the Horse Grimace Scale

Recent studies published in PLoS One introduced the Horse Grimace Scale (HGS) as a practical tool to help identify pain through facial expressions. The research involved groups of horses undergoing castration or non-invasive procedures, with careful analysis of facial changes before and after surgery.

The HGS focuses on six facial action units (FAUs) associated with pain:

• Stiff ears held backward
• Orbital tightening (squinting)
• Tension above the eyes
• Strained chewing muscles
• Strained mouth and pronounced chin
• Strained nostrils and flattened profile

This scale offers horse owners and professionals a validated method to identify and assess pain levels, encouraging earlier intervention and more effective care.

5. The Importance of Early Pain Recognition and Action

Because horses naturally hide pain, recognising early signs can significantly improve their welfare. Ignoring subtle discomfort can lead to chronic conditions and worsened quality of life. Regularly observe your horse’s posture, movement, facial expressions, and behaviour to catch any changes early.

If you notice signs of pain, contact your veterinarian, farrier, or equine dentist promptly to diagnose and treat the problem. Responsible and compassionate care ensures your horse remains comfortable, happy, and healthy.

6. Common Causes of Equine Pain and How to Manage Them

Pain in horses can stem from a variety of sources including:

• Hoof problems: Abscesses, laminitis, bruising, or improperly fitted shoes.
• Back pain: Muscular strain, arthritis, or ill-fitting saddles.
• Dental issues: Sharp edges on teeth, gum disease, or improper bit fit can cause mouth pain.
• Injuries: Wounds, sprains, and fractures.

Management involves timely veterinary treatment, correct farriery, appropriate tack fit, and pain relief as prescribed. Regular check-ups help prevent pain becoming chronic.

Being attentive to your horse’s needs and understanding pain signs means you can take swift, informed action that enhances health and wellbeing.

By becoming familiar with these signs and the Horse Grimace Scale, you empower yourself to be a more responsible and caring horse owner, improving your equine companion’s quality of life.