Clinical Manifestations and Behaviors Associated with Equine Head and Neck Disorders.
Abstract: Equine head and neck disorders can present with a wide range of clinical manifestations, depending on the structures involved and disease process. Important components of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, ophthalmological, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems are contained within the head and neck, and clinical signs of disorders will result in expected clinical signs. However, clinical manifestations of disease are sometimes subtle, and when not recognized can lead to behavioral changes including undesired behaviors and poor sleep. Recognizing behavioral phenotypes of horses with problems affecting the head and neck is essential for managing cases effectively, ensuring the horse's welfare and performance.
Copyright © 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Publication Date: 2026-02-26 PubMed ID: 41760450DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2026.01.002Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary
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Overview
- This research article discusses the various clinical signs and behaviors observed in horses with disorders affecting the head and neck regions.
- It emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs and associated behavioral changes to manage equine health and welfare properly.
Detailed Explanation
Clinical Manifestations of Equine Head and Neck Disorders
- The head and neck house crucial structures involved in multiple bodily systems:
- Gastrointestinal system components, such as parts of the digestive tract.
- Respiratory system, including the airway passages.
- Ophthalmological system, involving the eyes.
- Neurological system, containing various nerves important for sensory and motor functions.
- Musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, and joints supporting the head and neck.
- The specific clinical signs seen in horses depend highly on which structures are affected and the underlying disease process.
- Such manifestations range from obvious physical symptoms to more subtle signs that require careful examination.
Behavioral Changes Associated with Head and Neck Issues
- Some clinical manifestations may present subtly, making them difficult to recognize at first.
- Unrecognized or untreated head and neck disorders can lead to behavioral changes in horses, such as:
- Undesired behaviors that might impact handling or training.
- Poor sleep, possibly due to discomfort or neurological impairment.
- These behavioral phenotypes can be key indicators of underlying health issues affecting the head and neck.
Importance of Recognizing Clinical and Behavioral Signs
- Effective management of equine head and neck disorders requires an integrated understanding of both clinical signs and associated behaviors.
- Correctly recognizing these signs can lead to more accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans.
- Early identification and management improve the horse’s welfare by reducing discomfort and complications.
- This also supports maintaining or improving the horse’s performance, crucial in sport or work contexts.
Cite This Article
APA
Nout-Lomas YS, Story MR.
(2026).
Clinical Manifestations and Behaviors Associated with Equine Head and Neck Disorders.
Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract, S0749-0739(26)00002-7.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cveq.2026.01.002 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Equine Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA. Electronic address: Yvette.Nout-Lomas@colostate.edu.
- Equine Sports Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
Conflict of Interest Statement
Disclosures The authors have no commercial or financial conflicts of interest or funding sources related to this report.
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