An exploratory study of competition scores and salivary cortisol concentrations in Warmblood horses.

This research article explores the relationship between competition scores and salivary cortisol concentrations in dressage and showjumping horses and whether this hormonal concentration is influenced by consecutive days of competition compared to their regular home environment.

Objective of the Research

• The main objective of the study was to explore and describe the association between competition scores (performance) and salivary cortisol concentrations (a stress indicator) in young Warmblood horses. The researchers wanted to understand stress levels during both dressage and showjumping competitions.
• The study additionally aimed to evaluate whether the natural diurnal rhythm (day/night cycle) of salivary cortisol production was altered by competitive events extending over consecutive days in contrast to the animals’ home environments.

Research Methodology

• In the study, saliva samples were collected from 126 dressage and showjumping horses in their home environment and also at three different competition events.
• The researchers then assessed the relationship between the competition scores awarded by the judges and the cortisol concentrations at the competitions.

Key Findings

• The study found a positive correlation between competition scores and basal cortisol levels at only one of the three competition events. A positive correlation indicates that as one factor increases (in this case, baseline cortisol levels), the other (competition scores) also increases.
• Results indicated that salivary cortisol concentrations followed a diurnal rhythm, with the highest concentrations measured in the morning and the lowest in the evening. This pattern persisted in both the home and competition environments.
• Overall, the cortisol rates were higher during competitions than at home. However, among showjumpers, there was no noticeable increase between home and competition at one event.
• Dressage horses exhibited higher baseline cortisol concentrations during competition compared to showjumpers, suggesting that they might perceive the competition environment as more stressful.
• The physical exertion of competition did cause an increase in cortisol concentrations in both showjumpers and dressage horses.
• The researchers concluded that the day/night rhythm in salivary cortisol concentration remained constant, even in a novel (new and unfamiliar) environment, such as a competition.
• There was no consistent relationship detected between baseline salivary cortisol concentrations and competition scores across all events.