Companion Animals

Equine Stringhalt: Welfare and Management in Australia

Stringhalt is a neurological condition causing involuntary exaggerated flexion of one or both hindlimbs in horses, with Australian outbreaks linked to ingestion of Hypochoeris radicata (flatweed).

Key Facts

Stringhalt occurs in epidemic form in Australia associated with drought conditions and flatweed consumption
The condition results from axonal degeneration of peripheral nerves controlling hindlimb movement
Australian stringhalt typically causes bilateral hindlimb involvement affecting gait and mobility
Most horses recover over 6-18 months after removal from affected pastures

Welfare Considerations

Stringhalt causes gait abnormality ranging from mild exaggerated flexion to complete inability to walk normally, affecting the horse's quality of life and ability to exercise. Severely affected horses may fall. Welfare priorities include removing horses from flatweed-contaminated pastures, providing rest and supportive care, nutritional support, and phenytoin treatment which can accelerate recovery.

What You Can Do

Remove horses immediately from pastures dominated by flatweed if stringhalt signs appear
Work with a vet to confirm the diagnosis and initiate treatment if appropriate
Provide good nutrition and turnout in safe flatweed-free pasture during recovery
Control flatweed in pastures through appropriate grazing management and herbicide use