Bite and kick injuries in horses: prevalence, risk factors and prevention.

This research investigates the prevalence and risk factors of bite and kick injuries in horses in Switzerland. The study was conducted by distributing questionnaires to horse owners and analysing the data collected.

Study Design and Methodology

The researchers undertook the study by reaching out to horse owners across Switzerland. They devised a comprehensive questionnaire centered around different factors that could affect the occurrence of bite and kick injuries in horses. These factors included:

• The breed of the horse.
• The housing system and conditions where the horses are kept.
• The purpose or use of the horse.
• The feeding regime or diet of the horse.

The researchers randomly selected a total of 2559 horse owners to participate in this study.

Results

The collected data from 2912 horses and 897 identified disorders were analysed. Out of the documented injuries,

• 50 (or 21.6%) were caused by bite or kick injuries inflicted by other horses.
• This accounts for 5.6% of all reported diseases and injuries.
• However, only 1.7% of all evaluated horses suffered from these types of injuries.

Identified Risk Factors

The study found that certain breeds, such as Warmblood, Thoroughbred, and Arabian horses, were at a 4.3 times higher risk of sustaining bite or kick injuries compared to other breeds. Additionally, 18% of injuries were linked to changes in the housing management, happening regardless if horses were kept permanently or sporadically in groups.

Conclusion and Prevention

Based on the study’s findings, the researchers concluded that a stable group hierarchy and a well-adapted housing system, providing adequate space and accounting for horse-specific behaviors, were key in preventing bite and kick injuries in horses.