Ears pinned flat

The ears lie tight and flat against the neck. Usually a clear warning, but it can also belong with pain.

Ears pinned flat: The ears lie tight and flat against the neck. Usually a clear warning, but it can also belong with pain.
Read the combination and the context. Always read this signal together with the rest of the body and the situation.

What you see

Both ears lie tight and motionless flat back against the neck, often together with a tense face.

What it can mean

  • A threat or warning, for example toward another horse at feeding time.
  • Strong aversion, or defending space or food.
  • Pain or discomfort: flat, stiff ears are also one of the features of the validated pain scales.

What this does not prove

Pinned ears do not prove a horse is naturally grumpy or mean. They are a moment-to-moment signal and can just as well be a response to pain, fear or a specific situation.

Read the combination and the context

See whether there is a threat directed at something or someone (usually with the head turned, teeth bared or a lifted hind leg), or whether the flat ears belong with a tense pain face and no clear target.

When to seek help

If a horse that does not usually do this suddenly pins its ears often, especially when touched, saddled or ridden, have a vet rule out pain.

This section helps you observe; it does not diagnose. Behaviour alone does not prove pain or illness. New or clear signs of pain and unexplained changes in behaviour should be assessed by a veterinarian.

Discover more

Ears forwardEars sideways or relaxedEars turned backTest your knowledge in the quizAll signals

Sources: McDonnell, S. (2003), University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (New Bolton Center) · Dalla Costa, E. et al. (2014), PLOS ONE · Gleerup, K. et al. (2015), Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia.