If you’ve noticed your horse’s lower legs looking puffy, especially after a night in the stall, you’re likely seeing ‘stocking up.’ This common condition occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower limbs due to reduced circulation. The good news is that for many horses, stocking up is temporary and manageable with simple changes. Let’s explore why it happens and what you can do.

Why Horses Stock Up

The primary cause of stocking up is inactivity. When a horse stands still for long periods, the lymphatic system, which relies on muscle movement to pump fluid, slows down. Gravity then pulls fluid downward into the legs, causing swelling. Other factors include:
– Diet high in sugar or starch: Can increase fluid retention.
– Overweight or unfit horses: More prone to poor circulation.
– Early stages of lymphangitis: A more serious condition where infection or inflammation blocks lymph vessels.
– Stall confinement: Especially on soft bedding that doesn’t encourage movement.

Stocking up is usually bilateral (both hind legs or all four), whereas infection-related swelling is often one-sided.

How to Differentiate Stocking Up from Serious Issues

Mild stocking up typically feels like a doughy, cool swelling that pits when pressed. It often disappears once your horse starts moving. Signs that warrant a vet call include:
– Heat in the leg (feels warmer than the opposite leg)
– Pain (reluctance to bear weight or lameness)
– Sudden, severe swelling in a single leg
– Drainage or open sores
– Fever or lethargy

These could indicate cellulitis, lymphangitis, or a joint infection. Always err on the side of caution.

Tips to Prevent and Manage Stocking Up

  1. Increase movement: Turn your horse out in a large pasture or paddock. If stall rest is necessary, hand-walk several times daily. Five minutes of brisk walking every hour can make a big difference.
  2. Encourage in-stall activity: Use a stall toy (like a treat ball) to keep your horse shifting weight. A smaller stall with a mirror or companion in view may also prompt movement.
  3. Adjust feeding: Replace high-sugar grains with a balanced forage-based diet. Soaking hay can reduce sugar content. Consult your equine nutritionist or vet for a feed analysis.
  4. Use stable bandages or boots: Wrapping the legs with padded bandages overnight can help prevent fluid pooling. Be careful not to wrap too tightly. Remove bandages during turnout.
  5. Cold water hosing: If swelling is mild, hosing legs with cool water for 10 minutes can stimulate circulation. Do this after exercise.
  6. Elevate bedding: Add extra shavings to encourage your horse to lie down less (though rest is important). In stubborn cases, a slight incline in the stall may help fluid drain.

When to Call Your Vet

If stocking up persists despite increased activity and dietary changes, or if the swelling becomes hot, painful, or unilateral, schedule a vet exam. Your vet may check for metabolic issues like insulin resistance or early stages of laminitis, which can also cause stocking up. They might recommend bloodwork or ultrasound to evaluate lymphatic function.

For chronic cases, your vet may suggest therapy like manual lymph drainage, low-level laser therapy, or special compression boots. Never attempt to lance or drain puffy legs at home.

Key Takeaways

Stocking up is a sign that your horse needs more movement and perhaps a diet review. Most cases resolve with turnout and management tweaks. But when swelling is hot, painful, or one-sided, call your veterinarian.

Key Takeaway

Stocking up usually just means your horse needs more movement; if swelling is hot or one-sided, call your vet.

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