Stress signals

No single signal on its own, but a pattern: among others visible eye white, high head, droppings, sweating and not settling.

Stress signals: No single signal on its own, but a pattern: among others visible eye white, high head, droppings, sweating and not settling.
Read the combination and the context. Always read this signal together with the rest of the body and the situation.

What you see

A combination of signs can point to stress: visible eye white, a tight face, high head, tense body, frequent droppings, sweating without effort, fast breathing and difficulty settling.

What it can mean

  • Acute stress from a new, busy or frightening situation.
  • Ongoing stress from the environment, little company, too little movement or unclear handling.
  • Stress that accompanies pain or discomfort.

What this does not prove

No single sign proves stress. Sweating can come from heat, frequent droppings from feed. It is the pattern of several signals together, and the change from what is normal, that counts.

Read the combination and the context

Weigh several signals together and compare with what is normal for this horse. See whether the signs disappear once the trigger is gone, or whether they persist, which points to ongoing stress or pain.

When to seek help

Persistent stress signs with no clear trigger, or together with signs of pain, should be assessed by a vet and if needed a behaviour specialist, with attention to the living environment.

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

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Sources: World Horse Welfare · McGreevy, P. (2012), Saunders/Elsevier · International Society for Equitation Science (ISES).