How much rolling is normal for a thoroughbred?

Normal rolling is typically 1-3 times per day, often after exercise or in a dusty spot. Repeated rolling more than 3 times in 30 minutes or accompanied by pain signs warrants investigation.

Can rolling cause a twisted intestine in horses?

Violent, uncontrolled rolling can contribute to a torsion (twisted intestine), especially if the horse is already colicky. Always prevent a colicky horse from rolling by walking it gently and calling the vet.

What skin conditions cause excessive rolling in thoroughbreds?

Common skin causes include dry skin, insect bites, fungal infections like ringworm or rain rot, and allergies. Look for patches of hair loss, crusting, or swelling. Grooming and vet-prescribed treatments help.

Should I stop my horse from rolling in the dirt?

A healthy horse rolling in dirt to groom or scratch is fine. But if rolling becomes obsessive or happens in unsafe areas (e.g., near fences), redirect with exercise. Always rule out medical causes first.

Why is my thoroughbred rolling more than usual

If your thoroughbred has been rolling more than usual, the first step is to determine whether it’s normal behavior or a sign of discomfort. Horses roll to groom, scratch, relax, or simply enjoy themselves. However, excessive rolling, especially repeated, violent, or accompanied by pawing, looking at the flank, or sweating, can indicate colic, which is a medical emergency. This article covers common reasons for increased rolling, from digestive issues to skin problems, and guides you on when to call your veterinarian.

Understanding Normal Rolling vs. Warning Signs

A healthy thoroughbred may roll once or twice after exercise, in a dusty patch, or after a bath. This is normal grooming and stretching behavior. Warning signs include:
– Rolling repeatedly in a short period (e.g., more than 3-4 times in 30 minutes)
– Rolling violently or throwing themselves down hard
– Lying on their side for extended periods
– Pawing, kicking at the belly, or looking back at their flank
– Decreased appetite, lethargy, or excessive sweating
If you observe any of these, contact your vet immediately.

Digestive Issues: The Most Common Culprit

The leading cause of increased rolling in horses is digestive discomfort, particularly colic. Thoroughbreds are prone to colic due to their sensitive digestive systems and often high-energy diets. Types include gas colic, impaction colic, or displacement colic. Rolling is often a horse’s attempt to relieve gas or pain. Other signs of colic include:
– Reduced or absent manure production
– Off-feed or eating less hay
– Restlessness, shifting weight
– Lying down and getting up frequently
– Gums that are brick red or pale
If your thoroughbred is rolling and showing any of these signs, call your vet right away. While waiting, walk the horse gently if it is safe to do so, never let a colicky horse roll violently, as this can twist the intestine.

Skin and External Causes

Sometimes rolling is not about the inside but the outside. Thoroughbreds have thin skin and are sensitive to:
– Insect bites or fly irritation: Rolling in mud or dirt helps coat the skin with a protective layer. Use fly sprays, sheets, or masks, and keep stalls clean.
– Dry skin or shedding: Spring and fall shedding can cause itching. Regular grooming and a balanced diet with omega-3s can help.
– Fungal infections: Ringworm or rain rot (dermatophilosis) cause intense itching. Look for crusty patches, hair loss, or scabs. Consult your vet for diagnosis and treatment (topical antifungals or antimicrobial washes).
– Allergies: Some horses react to bedding, feed, or pasture plants. If rolling coincides with a change in environment, consider allergy testing.

Behavioral and Environmental Factors

Rolling can also be a happy or playful behavior. Changes in routine, new herd mates, or increased turnout may lead to more rolling. For example, a horse turned out in fresh grass may roll to spread the scent or just because it feels good. However, if rolling is excessive without physical cause, consider:
– Boredom or lack of turnout: Increase exercise or add toys in the stall.
– Stress: Changes in routine, competition, or being stalled too long can cause repetitive behaviors. Ensure adequate turnout and socialization.
– Habit: Some horses develop a habit of rolling after every ride. This is normal unless it becomes compulsive.

What to Do: A Practical Checklist

When you notice increased rolling, follow these steps:
1. Observe and count: How many times in 10 minutes? Any other signs?
2. Check vital signs: Temperature (99-101 F), heart rate (28-44 bpm), respiratory rate (8-16 breaths/min). Elevated vitals suggest pain.
3. Look for manure: Has the horse passed manure recently? Dry or absent manure points to colic.
4. Check skin and coat: Any sores, bumps, or missing hair?
5. Evaluate environment: Any new feed, bedding, or turnout changes?
6. Contact your veterinarian: If in doubt, call. Taking a video of the behavior can help the vet assess.

When to Call the Vet

Call your vet if:
– The horse rolls more than 5 times in an hour.
– Rolling is violent or accompanied by thrashing.
– You see signs of colic: pawing, flank-watching, sweating, no manure.
– The horse has not eaten or drunk for 12 hours.
– Gums are abnormal, or temperature is over 102 F.
– The horse is injured from rolling (e.g., cuts, swelling).
Remember, horses can die from colic quickly. It is always better to be safe and call.

Prevention Tips

Maintain a consistent diet high in forage, low in grain. Thoroughbreds benefit from slow feeders to prevent gulping.
Provide regular turnout and daily exercise.
Use fly control and proper grooming.
Ensure fresh water at all times.
Schedule regular dental checks and deworming based on fecal egg counts.
Consider a probiotic supplement for digestive health (consult your vet).

Understanding your thoroughbred’s normal behavior is key. Keep a daily log of rolling, eating, and manure for a baseline. If rolling increases without other signs, it may simply be a preference. But when in doubt, let your vet decide.

Key Takeaway

If your thoroughbred’s rolling increases beyond normal grooming behavior, watch for colic signs like pain, no manure, or sweating, and call your veterinarian immediately.

Sources

AKC
ASPCA