Successful treatment of head shaking by use of infrared diode laser deflation and coagulation of corpora nigra cysts and behavioral modification in a horse.

This research article discusses the successful treatment of a horse’s head shaking issue using infrared diode laser deflation and coagulation of corpora nigra cysts, alongside behavioral modifications. The method effectively restored the horse’s performance and emphasized the importance of addressing both physical and psychological aspects in treating behavioral problems.

Issue and Background

• The subject of the research was a 15-year-old Saddlebred gelding, a breed commonly used for competitive pleasure driving. The horse had been suffering from regular head shaking while pulling a cart, a symptom noticed for a year prior to the study.
• The issue was traced back to cystic corpora nigra present in both eyes of the horse, a physical condition that had led to behaviorally conditioned responses. Specifically, these responses were related to wearing a bridle with blinkers on both sides.

Treatment Process

• The research team used a combination of medical and psychological treatments to address the issue.
• The horse underwent a procedure where infrared diode laser was used to deflate and coagulate the corpora nigra cysts in both eyes. Lasers are often used in veterinary medicine to accurately target and treat specific areas with minimal invasiveness.
• Alongside the medical intervention, a program of behavioral modification was implemented. This consisted of desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques to alter the horse’s conditioned responses. Desensitization gradually reduces reaction to a stimulus, and counter-conditioning replaces an unwanted behavior with a desired one.

Results and Conclusion

• This combined approach successfully restored the horse’s physical health and behavioral performance. The horse stopped demonstrating head shaking behavior, thereby improving its performance in competitive pleasure driving.
• The research underscores the idea that behavioral issues in animals often have physical and psychological origins. Successful treatment should, therefore, address both components.
• This study provides valuable insights into treatment strategies for similar cases where physical health issues contribute to noticeable behavioral changes in horses and potentially other animals.