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Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Groaning Sound when Gelding or Stallion Trots
Summary
An odd groaning or honking sound originating from the sheath can occur when a stallion or gelding trots. This is thought to be caused by tensing of the abdominal muscles causing air to be sucked into the sheath.
This is particularly noticeable at an extended trot or animated trot as pressure is created in the sheath with stretching of the abdominal wall from increased length of stride.
It is considered a normal finding. Since this sound is caused by muscle tension and pocketed air pressure within the sheath, it may or may not lessen or disappear after a sheath cleaning. Regardless, it is usually not a cause for concern unless other signs accompany it.
In rare cases, sounds can come from deep wounds to the armpit or groin. A sucking sound can rarely be heard immediately after a horse has been castrated. In this case it is caused by air being sucked into the incisions. This is a very different sound and occurs at the walk. Most horses with large wounds to this area are not trotting.
This is particularly noticeable at an extended trot or animated trot as pressure is created in the sheath with stretching of the abdominal wall from increased length of stride.
It is considered a normal finding. Since this sound is caused by muscle tension and pocketed air pressure within the sheath, it may or may not lessen or disappear after a sheath cleaning. Regardless, it is usually not a cause for concern unless other signs accompany it.
In rare cases, sounds can come from deep wounds to the armpit or groin. A sucking sound can rarely be heard immediately after a horse has been castrated. In this case it is caused by air being sucked into the incisions. This is a very different sound and occurs at the walk. Most horses with large wounds to this area are not trotting.
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Code Green
Contact Your Vet to Obtain Useful Advice & Resources
your role
What To Do
If you remain concerned about this observation, first perform the Whole Horse Exam. If anything seems abnormal to you, then talk to your vet.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
Very Common
your vet's role
In most cases, this is not a cause for concern and so your vet will not need to see the horse.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- Does your horse seem normal otherwise?
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.
Very Common
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)
