Very Common
Less Common
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Kicks Out with a Hind Limb Under Saddle
Summary
Kicking out under saddle can be strictly a behavioral problem, but can also be a sign that the horse is uncomfortable high in the hind limb. Horses that kick out a hind limb, particularly at the canter, may have specific but sometimes very subtle lameness or neurologic conditions.
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Code Orange
Call Your Vet at Their First Available Office Hours- If you notice lameness in addition to this sign.
- If you feel the problem is severe or has come on suddenly.
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Code Yellow
Contact Your Vet at Your Convenience for an Appointment- If you notice this only intermittently and lameness is not obvious.
your role
What To Do
Assess your horse's general health using the Whole Horse Exam (WHE), paying particular attention to the symmetry of the top of the hip when viewed from behind. Look for areas of swelling or asymmetry of the back, and assess the legs. Consider whether there are other signs of lameness or deficiencies in performance. Contact your vet with your findings and concerns.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Your vet may perform a lameness exam and other lameness diagnostics to rule out possible causes for the behavior.
In some cases, I recommend a course of phenylbutazone for the horse (a bute trial). If the behavior disappears while the horse is on bute, it is suggestive that pain is playing a role in the behavior.
In some cases, I recommend a course of phenylbutazone for the horse (a bute trial). If the behavior disappears while the horse is on bute, it is suggestive that pain is playing a role in the behavior.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- What are the results of the Whole Horse Exam (WHE)?
- When did you first notice this behavior?
- Do you notice any lameness?
- When did you last notice the horse behaving normally?
- Describe the type of exercise and riding that you do with your horse.
- Have you been riding the horse all along or are you a new rider?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
Very Common
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health