Characteristics of Health Parameters and the Digital Cushion in Horses

Abstract

Studies examining lameness conditions and health concerns for horse owners are important for education and future research. To investigate this, a survey and two studies were conducted. For the survey, a total of 152 responses were collected. Horse owners ranked lameness as the top concern (35%), followed by colic (21%). Lameness issues were ranked as the top (37%) veterinary expense. To validate a non-invasive ultrasound technique for imaging the digital cushion, ten cadaver limbs were evaluated. There was a strong correlation (r = 0.73; p = 0.02) between ultrasound and actual measurement. To establish baseline values, 25 mature, stock-type horses were imaged. Mean values for age, weight, and BCS were 10.5 years, 477.2 kg, and 5.5, respectively. Mean values for digital cushion of the left fore and hind were 0.96 and 1.04 cm, respectively. When comparing shod versus unshod horses, no significant difference (p = 0.13) was observed.