A skinny horse is not a pretty sight. With ribs protruding, and hip bones threatening to serve as a hat rack for the next passerby, he gives an immediate impression of ill health… and it’s no illusion. A too-thin equine is one who has no energy reserves on which to draw, and when push comes to shove, will not be able to perform to the best of his ability. At the very least, he’ll be easily fatigued; at worst, his every system is compromised, and he’ll be vulnerable to injury and disease.

KENDRA BOND A very thin horse. Animal emaciated, very minimal fat covering. Spine visible but ends feel rounded; tailhead and hip bones obvious. Ribs prominent with slight depressions between them.

A lot of things can create a skinny horse: previous or ongoing injury or illness, poor dental health, parasite infestation, the serious physical demands of lactation (nursing a foal) or breeding (for stallions), excess work, the stress of a new environment or lifestyle change (such as separation from an established herd or a favorite companion), or just plain starvation. Sometimes physical problems, such as chronic laminitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (heaves), can compromise a horse’s mobility and make it difficult for him to consume enough feed, especially if he is on pasture. For horses in their 20s or 30s, the combination of poor teeth, a less efficient digestive system, and a decreased appetite can make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight