Kick threat

A raised or cocked hind leg as a warning. Usually defence or creating distance.

Kick threat: A raised or cocked hind leg as a warning. Usually defence or creating distance.
Read the combination and the context. Always read this signal together with the rest of the body and the situation.

What you see

The horse lifts a hind leg, stamps or cocks the leg backward without contact, often with pinned ears and the hindquarters turned toward the target.

What it can mean

  • Creating distance from another horse or from something in the rear zone.
  • Defence with discomfort, for example with flies, touching a sensitive spot or pain.
  • Startle at an unexpected touch from behind.

What this does not prove

A kick threat does not prove a mean character. It is usually a warning asking for space. Kicking toward the belly or when touched can be a response to pain.

Read the combination and the context

See whether the horse is reacting to something behind it, to another horse or to touch of a particular spot. Repeated threatening toward its own belly can belong with belly pain.

When to seek help

New or repeated kick threats when touched, groomed or girthed should be investigated for pain. For safety, work with an experienced handler.

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

Threat displayBitingFlight responseFreezingTest your knowledge in the quizAll signals

Sources: McDonnell, S. (2003), University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (New Bolton Center) · World Horse Welfare.