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Quidding is a term used to describe a horse dropping feed or hay from its mouth while eating. When consuming hay, horses that quid may chew the hay into a ball and drop it, leaving a characteristic “bird’s nest” shaped ball of hay in the stall or pasture. Quidding can be a sign of dental problems as well as a number of other conditions.
Horses sometimes quid due to dental issues that make chewing painful or difficult. Common dental issues include sharp enamel points, gaps between teeth or fractured teeth. Dropping feed may also be a sign of certain neurological conditions, infections or jaw disorders.
Quidding affects the horse’s ability to break down and digest food effectively, potentially leading to weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and other health problems.
Addressing quidding involves identifying and treating underlying dental problems to ensure proper mastication (chewing) and maintain overall health. Knowing when to seek veterinary advice ensures the best outcome if quidding is linked to a more serious health issue.
Quidding in Horses
Quidding in horses occurs when a horse chews its forage or feed but then drops partially chewed food from its mouth instead of swallowing it. This usually happens because of dental issues that make chewing difficult or uncomfortable.
As a result, the horse cannot fully chew or swallow its food, leading to inefficient digestion and nutrient absorption.
While quidding is usually a sign of dental problems, it is sometimes related to other medical conditions, which underscores the importance of regular veterinary and dental care for horses.
How Quidding Impacts Digestion
The process of digestion begins in the horse’s mouth. Effective mastication (chewing) is fundamental to equine nutrition, as it breaks down feed into smaller particles and mixes it with saliva, which lubricates the ingesta for smooth passage through the mouth and esophagus.
Unlike ruminants, who rely on their tongues to tear plant material, horses use their teeth to rip and grind forage. Chewing breaks food into smaller particles, making nutrients easier to extract and absorb. Proper mastication increases the surface area of the ingesta, allowing digestive enzymes to work more effectively.
Thorough chewing is especially important for nutrient absorption in horses because they have a single stomach before food moves to the lower digestive tract. If a horse struggles with quidding, this process can be impacted, leading to low nutrient intake and inefficient digestion.
Causes
Quidding has various root causes ranging from fractured teeth to neurological conditions. Generally, dropping feed results from either dysfunctional chewing linked to teeth or oral structures, or an inability to move the mouth normally.
Dental Issues
Dental disorders are one of the most common medical conditions diagnosed in horses. Approximately 10% of veterinary practice is devoted to the treatment of dental problems.
Various dental issues, such as sharp enamel points and fractured teeth can lead to quidding in horses. [1]
Sharp Enamel Points
Sharp enamel points are the most common finding in equine dental examinations. These points develop on the outside of the upper molars and on the inner surface of the lower molars. [2]
To understand why sharp points form, it’s helpful to review the anatomy the horse’s mouth. In particular, the horse’s upper jaw is wider than the lower jaw, causing uneven wear as the horse chews.
Illustration: Dr. Ana Mesa, PhD
Horses’ teeth erupt continuously throughout their life to compensate for constant wear from their grazing lifestyle. Since the upper jaw is wider than the lower, the outer surface of the upper teeth does not come into contact with the lower teeth, preventing sharp enamel points on these surfaces from grinding down as much as surfaces on the inside of the upper teeth. [2]
If sharp enamel points interfere with eating, they can cause several symptoms, including: [2][3][4]
- Quidding
- Formation of ulcers on the cheeks and tongue
- Head tilt during mastication
- Weight loss
- Resisting the bit
- Colic
The treatment for sharp enamel points is a procedure known as “floating,” a key part of routine annual dental care for horses. During dental floating, the sharp points of the horse’s teeth are filed down.
Gaps Between Teeth
Diastemata are gaps between teeth that increase the risk of periodontal (gum) disease. If gaps are present, feed may get lodged between teeth where it decomposes and leads to inflammation of the gums. Periodontal disease is a painful condition that causes significant discomfort for the horse. [5]
In advanced stages of diastemata, the affected teeth may come loose. Loose teeth are most commonly found in the lower jaw between the back cheek teeth. [5]
Older horses are at a higher risk of developing diastemata. No definitive treatment is available and affected horses require frequent monitoring and cleaning of the spaces between the teeth. [5]
Management of the condition involves feeding the horse a soft diet that is easier to chew and less likely to damage oral tissues.
A temporary solution involves filling the diastema with dental impression material. In severe cases, the affected molars are removed. Some affected horses benefit from mouth rinses with a diluted chlorhexidine solution. [5]
Fractured Teeth
Fractured teeth are a common dental issue in horses. They can be caused by trauma to the mouth or the presence of cavities. Additionally, chewing on small stones found in feed or picked up while feeding from the ground can cause cheek teeth fractures.[6]
Tooth fractures cause significant pain as sharp fragments can create lesions in the mouth, while the damaged tooth can trap rotting food, leading to infection. Treatment depends on the type of fracture and may include: [6][7]
- Odontoplasty (enamelplasty): Small pieces of enamel are smoothed to even up the bite plates.
- Extraction: Removal of either the entire tooth or loose fragments.
- Pin repulsion: A metal pin is used to extract the tooth by pushing it out from the root. However, this method is considered outdated by some equine dentists due to the high risk of damaging surrounding teeth.
Oral Soft Tissue
In some cases, horses have difficulty keeping feed in their mouths due to injuries and pain in the soft structures of the oral cavity. These can occur secondary to the dental issues outlined above or may arise independently.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an extremely common condition in horses and is the leading cause of tooth loss. It is characterized by inflammation of the alveolar bone, the gums, and the joint that anchors the teeth to the bone socket. [8][9]
There are two forms of periodontal disease: [9]
- Gingivitis: Refers to inflammation or recession of the gums, which causes swelling, redness, bleeding of the gums, and ulceration. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, and if left untreated, it frequently progresses to periodontitis.
- Periodontitis: The more advanced stage of periodontal disease that involves inflammation and damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, including the periodontal ligaments and bone. The symptoms of periodontitis are tooth mobility and severe pain.
While not all cases of gingivitis progress to periodontitis, close monitoring and prompt treatment in the early stages of gingivitis can significantly reduce the risk of the condition worsening.
Periodontal disease in horses is treated with the following interventions: [8][9]
- Occlusal equilibration: The teeth are reshaped to correct alignment of the bite.
- Pocket debridement: Manual removal of dead tissue and other build up from the gum pockets.
- Perioceutic therapy: Specific medications for periodontal disease.
Mouth Blisters & Lesions
Mouth blisters in horses can occur as a consequence of several different conditions, including:
- Dental issues
- Infections
- Exposure to blistering or caustic chemicals
- Ingestion of toxic plants
- Issues with the bit
Treatment for oral lesions depends on the underlying cause. Some blisters resolve on their own once the underlying cause or triggering factor has been resolved. Others may require ongoing monitoring and wound care.
Still others may require management changes, such as selecting a different bit.
Vesicular Stomatitis
Vesicular stomatitis is a viral infection transmitted by midges and biting flies. It is characterized by vesicular lesions on the horses’ lips, tongue, ears, and ventral abdomen. [10]
The condition generally does not require treatment, with symptoms resolving on their own within two weeks. During recovery, some horses benefit from soft feed and anti-inflammatory medications. [10]
Other Causes
Quidding is also associated with certain physiological changes, some of which are temporary. These cases highlight the importance of regular veterinary and dental care, allowing owners and caretakers to adjust diet and management to support the horse’s changing needs.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
Equine temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disease is a condition that affects the articulations in the jaw. Horses, like all mammals, have two temporomandibular joints located on both sides of the jaw connected to the lower skull. [11]
The TMJs are complex joints that allow animals to open and close their mouths. TMJ disorders can be caused by several factors, including degenerative changes due to aging. [11]
Symptoms of TMJ disease in horses include: [11]
- Quidding
- Stiffness in the jaw
- Irritability
- Yawning
- Head shaking
Abnormal Retention in Young Horses
Between 2 and 4 years of age, colts and fillies replace their deciduous (primary or baby) teeth with permanent teeth.
Under normal circumstances, baby teeth thin and shed on their own. However, sometimes the adult teeth erupt at a skewed angle and the baby teeth do not fall out. [12][13][14]
When deciduous teeth remain in the mouth together with the adult teeth, they are called caps. [12][13][14]
Symptoms of retained deciduous teeth include: [12][13][14]
- Quidding
- Eating slowly
- Loss of appetite
- Resisting bits
- Head shaking
- Excessive salivation
The only treatment option is removal of the dental cap under standing sedation. Following removal, horses may require several days of recovery before exhibiting normal feeding behavior.
Failure to remove retained deciduous teeth can result in abnormal development of the permanent teeth and long-term dental complications. [12][13][14]
Age-Related Wear and Tear
Quidding is common in senior horses, as they are more prone to recurring dental issues from infection and wear. Senior horses with Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID, formerly known as Cushing’s) are at an even higher risk of developing oral infections. [15][16]
Given the risks associated with age-related wear on teeth, it is recommended that horses over 20 years old receive dental care twice a year instead of just once. [16]
Dysphagia
Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty or inability to swallow. It can be caused by various factors, including: [16]
- Dental disease
- Venomous Snake bites
- Yellow star thistle poisoning
- Facial paralysis
- Strangles
- Esophageal obstruction (choke)
Concurrent Symptoms
Horses that exhibit quidding may have other related clinical signs, which vary depending on the underlying cause. Possible concurrent symptoms include:
- Weight loss
- Excessive salivation
- Head tilting during mastication
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Decreased performance
- Dental and oral pain
- Difficulty in prehension (grasping food with the lips)
If you observe these symptoms in your horse, consult with your veterinarian to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Diagnostics
Diagnosing the cause of quidding in horses requires a thorough oral examination. Equine oral exams can be conducted efficiently and with minimal discomfort to the horse in a variety of settings, from the field to the clinic.
A comprehensive evaluation should include the following: [17]
External Examination
- Visual inspection for abnormalities such as lumps, swellings, or abnormal discharge
- Assessment of nasal and oral odors
- Palpation of head structures to identify areas of sensitivity
- Observation of the horse’s eating behavior for signs of difficulty
Oral Cavity Soft Tissue Examination
- Thorough inspection of the tongue, cheeks, and gums for injuries or inflammation
Occlusal Examination
- Careful evaluation of tooth surfaces for irregularities such as sharp points or uneven wear
- Use of appropriate equipment, including a speculum and good lighting, to facilitate examination
Periodontal Examination
- Assessment of gum health, including color, texture, and bleeding
- Inspection for spaces between teeth (diastemata)
- Evaluation of tooth stability
- Potential use of an oral endoscope for a more detailed examination
Endodontic Examination
- Assessment of the internal structure of affected teeth for signs of decay, fractures, or pulp damage
Regular oral examinations are key to maintaining dental health in horses. Given their instinctual ability to hide signs of discomfort, horses often exhibit advanced dental problems before showing obvious symptoms. Early detection through routine examinations can prevent pain, improve performance, and reduce treatment costs.
Treatment & Management
Treatment of quidding in horses depends on the underlying conditions contributing to this symptom.
Extractions
In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary. Most extractions can be performed with the horse under standing sedation using local anesthesia. However, older horses with other health conditions might require general anesthesia.
Postoperative care includes proper alveolus packing and monitoring for complications such as secondary bacterial sinusitis.[18][19]
Management
Support for horses with difficulty chewing may include offering softened food, such as soaked hay or mashes.
Adding oils to the horse’s diet can increase their caloric intake without the need for chewing, which may be recommended for horses who have lost weight as a result of their dental issues.
Work with an equine nutritionist to formulate a balanced diet that takes into consideration your horse’s dental issues.
Digestive supplements may be recommended to promote optimal nutrient absorption from feed and maintain gut health. Ingredients to look for include yeast, digestive enzymes and probiotics.
Routine Care
Staying up-to-date with routine veterinary and dental care is the best way to support dental health and overall welfare in your equines. Always comply with home care instructions and administer any prescribed medications according to the label and directions from the treating veterinarian.
Summary
Quidding, characterized by a horse dropping feed and hay while eating, is a common sign of oral issues in horses.
- Possible causes include sharp enamel points on molars, diastemata (gaps between teeth), periodontal disease, and teeth fractures
- Quidding may lead to weight loss, nutrient deficiencies, or gut issues
- Regular dental check-ups and routine veterinary care are important to avoid long-term complications of quidding
- Horses may need dietary and management modifications to support recovery from dental disease
References
- Samad, L. et al., Clinical Dental Finding in Iranian Horses. Veterinary Medicine and Science. 2020. View Summary
- Warren, D., Equine Dentistry: Sharp Enamel Points. Texas Equine Dentistry Blog. 2013.
- Dixon, P. M., and Dacre, I., A Review of Equine Dental Disorders. The Veterinary Journal. 2005. View Summary
- Easley, J., Dental Disorders of Horses. Merck Veterinary Manual. 2019.
- Demey, W. Diastemata in Horses. Veterinary Practice Equide.
- Dixon, P. M. et al., Equine “Idiopathic” and Infundibular Caries-Related Cheek Teeth Fractures: A Long-Term Study of 486 Fractured Teeth in 300 Horses. Veterinary Dentistry and Oromaxillofacial Surgery.
- Thill, M. Equine Dentistry – Easy Does It. Veterinary Advantage. 2021.
- Kane, E., Periodontal Disease in Horses: What Causes It—and How to Fix It. DVM 360. 2020.
- Klugh, D. O., Equine Periodontal Disease. Clinical Techniques in Equine Practice. 2005.
- Pelzel-McCluskey, A., Vesicular Stomatitis in Large Animals. Merck Veterinary Manual. 2014.
- Baker, G. J. Equine Temporomandibular Joints(TMJ): Morphology, Function, and Clinical Disease. AAEP. 2002.
- Easley, J., Abnormal Tooth Eruption in Horses/a>. Merck Veterinary Manual.
- Brannan, J., Equine Dentistry. VIN.com. 2002.
- Thal, D., Retained Caps, Deciduous Teeth. Horse Side Vet Guide.
- du Toit, N. Advances in dental management in the equine geriatric patient: strategies for improved welfare. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2023. View Summary
- Reed, S. M. et al., Equine Internal Medicine. 3rd ed. Saunders Elsevier, St. Louis, Mo. 2010.
- Equine Oral Exam. UTCVM Veterinary Medical Center. 2019.
- Tooth Extraction Factsheet. XLVet UK.
- Caldwell, F. J., Equine Cheek Tooth Extraction: A Surgical Challenge. Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. 2024.
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