Companion Animals

Companion Horse Pain Scoring and Recognition

Evidence-based pain scoring tools for horses and improving pain recognition in equine practice.

Key Facts

The Composite Pain Scale and Horse Grimace Scale are validated assessment tools
Horses mask pain as a prey species survival strategy
Laminitis, colic, and musculoskeletal conditions are leading causes of equine pain
Vets and owners often underestimate horse pain compared to objective scoring
Regular use of pain scales improves treatment decisions and welfare outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Systematic use of validated pain scoring tools is essential to identify and treat pain in horses, whose stoic nature makes clinical assessment challenging.

What You Can Do

Learn the Horse Grimace Scale to assess your horse for pain
Request pain assessment training from your equine veterinarian
Advocate for pain scoring as a standard part of equine veterinary examinations