Companion Animals

Horse Dental Care and Welfare

Dental problems in horses cause significant chronic pain that affects eating, behaviour, and overall quality of life.

Key Facts

Horses need dental examinations by an equine dental technician or vet every 6-12 months
Sharp enamel points develop on horse teeth and cause mouth ulcers and pain when biting
Horses with dental problems may quid (drop food), lose weight, resist the bridle, or show head tossing
Geriatric horses over 20 years often have significant dental disease requiring specialist management
Many owners underestimate dental care needs, leading to preventable chronic pain

Welfare Considerations

Dental pain in horses is a widespread and underrecognised welfare problem. Because horses cannot communicate pain directly, owners often attribute behavioural problems to training issues rather than physical discomfort. Regular dental examinations and rasping (floating) by a qualified professional are essential welfare commitments for all horse owners.

What You Can Do

Schedule annual equine dental examinations for all horses and ponies
Recognise that ridden behavioural problems may have dental causes
Ensure any dental work is performed by a qualified equine dental technician or vet
Increase dental check frequency for horses over 15 years of age
Seek veterinary advice promptly for any signs of difficulty eating or mouth discomfort