Observations on headshaking in the horse.

This research examines the causes and symptoms of headshaking behavior in horses, suggesting that in the majority of cases, the cause remains unknown, and underlines a noted seasonal pattern and similarities between this behavior and allergic rhinitis in humans.

Research Overview

The paper involves a review of 100 cases of horses exhibiting headshaking behavior. The primary objective was to investigate the possible causes and additional clinical signs accompanying the behavior. Despite identifying potential reasons in 11 cases, only two saw a cessation of headshaking after the abnormality was rectified.

Identified Causes

• Specific potential causes were identified in 11 of the examined horses. These include <a href="/ear-mites-in-horses/" title="Ear Mites & Psoroptic Mange in Horses: Transmission, Treatment & Prevention”>ear mite infestation, otitis interna (inflammation of the inner ear), cranial nerve dysfunction, cervical injury, ocular disease, guttural pouch mycosis (fungal infection in the guttural pouch), dental periapical osteitis (inflammation in the area surrounding the root of a tooth), and suspected vasomotor rhinitis.
• In only two of these cases did the resolution of the underlying condition result in the cessation of the headshaking behavior.

Additional Clinical Symptoms

• The study details additional signs associated with headshaking cases that remain idiopathic, or without an identified cause. These include nasal irritation, sneezing, snorting, nasal discharge, coughing, and excessive lacrimation (tear production).

Seasonal Pattern and Allergic Rhinitis Similarity

• Many of the horses demonstrated a significant seasonal pattern regarding the onset of the disease and recurrence in subsequent years.
• The researchers highlight that the clinical presentation of idiopathic headshakers and the seasonal incidence of signs bear a strong resemblance to allergic rhinitis (a type of inflammation in the nose) found in humans. It leads to consideration of similar underlying allergies or sensitivities being responsible for the headshaking behavior in horses.