Pressure on the horse’s withers with three styles of blanket.

The research compares the total force and localised pressure on horses’ withers using three styles of blankets. The results show that the blanket style influences the force and pressure on the horse’s withers, with potential risks for pressure sores.

Objective of the Study

• The main aim of the research was to assess the effects of three different styles of blankets on the total force and localized pressure on the withers of horses. The blanket styles under consideration were straight cut, V-shaped insert, and cutback withers.

Methodology

• For this study, twelve horses were selected, and pressure recordings were taken three times for each horse, each lasting 5 seconds.
• The readings were taken while the horses were both standing and walking. The variables that were calculated and compared across the blankets included total force, mean pressure, maximal pressure, and the area with a pressure greater than 4 kPa.
• Data collected was statistically interpreted using mean and standard deviation calculations.

Findings

• The study findings showed significant differences among the three styles of blankets in terms of the pressure and force exerted on the horses’ withers.
• Different blankets affected the horses differently in standing and walking scenarios. While standing, the V-shaped insert blanket placed the least total force, and the smallest area with more than 4 kPa pressure. However, while walking, the straight cut blanket exerted the highest total force and mean pressure, resulted in the maximal pressure, and covered the largest area with more than 4 kPa pressure. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.05).

Implications of the Study

• The results of this study indicate that the style of the blanket significantly impacts the force and pressure on a horse’s withers.
• This pressure could potentially be great enough to induce pressure sores in the horses, which may lead to discomfort, pain, and potential health issues like skin infections.
• Therefore, blanket design and blanket choice for horse owners or carers can be crucial to the welfare of their horses. Specifically, V-shaped insert blankets may be beneficial for standing horses, and alternatives may be necessary for use during horse movement.