Thick jaws in horses

Thick jaws in horses

The term "jaw" refers to the semicircular area of ​​the rear lower jaw in horses. Specifically, it refers to the area at the edge of the cheek formed by the masseter muscle. Adjacent to this area are the strands of the parotid gland, which originate at the top of the lower part of the auricle.

Freedom of the horse's jaw

The freedom of the muzzle or width of the muzzle is of great importance in equestrian sports, especially in dressage. Adopting the posture required in dressage is virtually impossible for a horse with a muzzle that is too narrow. Muzzle pressure refers to painful pressure with the reins on the Parotid gland. The width of the muzzle, or also known as the muzzle clearance, is crucial for a horse's suitability for dressage.

Causes of swollen parotid glands in horses – facts and common assumptions

Swollen parotid glands in horses are a frequently observed phenomenon, and there are many different opinions and theories about this. Some suspect that small stones could be blocking the gland ducts. Others attribute the discomfort to the influence of fertilizers in the paddock, which may cause irritation of the glands. Allergies to certain plants or a high protein or fructan content in the diet are also frequently discussed as possible causes.

Regardless of the various theories, one thing is clear: bilaterally swollen parotid glands are a familiar problem for many horse owners. This phenomenon is particularly common in horses ridden in the so-called rollkur style. The tight lacing can cause the muzzles to become crushed, which impairs the horse's well-being.

The crushing can cause the parotid glands to produce excessive saliva, which cannot drain properly. This causes the glands to visibly protrude. Over time, this can lead to chronic inflammation of the parotid glands.

Swollen jaws after paddock walk – A common puzzle for horse owners

A common phenomenon in horses is swollen jaws after being out on pasture. This symptom often puzzles both horse owners and veterinarians.

Swollen parotid glands are particularly common in horses that consume short-grazed grass. Interestingly, neither the weather, season, age, nor breed of the horse are decisive factors. A common factor among affected horses is the consumption of short-grazed grass, some of which has been eaten down to the roots.

It is discussed that the intense plucking motion during feeding when grass is insufficient could be a possible trigger for the swelling of the parotid glands. The frequent chewing motion stimulates saliva production. However, if there is insufficient food intake due to a shortage of grass, the saliva produced cannot be transported away or swallowed along with the food.

This disrupted drainage causes saliva to build up and the parotid glands to swell.

What influence does feeding have

Please don't hesitate to take action if your horse is having difficulty salivating. It's important to support the horse so that the saliva can flow naturally or be swallowed. Gentle exercise or feeding small portions can be helpful.

When feeding, make sure to provide high-quality hay. Hay provides longer-lasting activity and naturally stimulates saliva production. In contrast, you shouldn't offer quick-feed foods like muesli or oats, as these are consumed quickly and don't stimulate sufficient saliva production. This can cause the muzzles to remain swollen.

To support metabolism and promote healthy glandular drainage, administering our "Liver Herbs for Horses Sunrise" may be beneficial. This herbal blend is specifically designed to strengthen the liver and intestines, thus supporting the natural metabolic process.

Exercise helps your horse

If you choose to exercise your horse, lunging is the recommended method. When riding, the bridle can sometimes put additional pressure on the glands, which could worsen the condition. If your horse feels comfortable with a loose, relaxed ride on a long rein, this is also possible.

It's important that your horse is relaxed and chews its feed calmly. Movement can naturally stimulate saliva flow. Furthermore, physical activity supports the general metabolism, which can have a positive effect on your horse's well-being.

Can I prevent thick jaws in horses?

Yes, you can support this by making sure you don't ride your horse in the so-called rollkur. This riding style can not only put strain on the parotid gland, but also impair other structures. If you still want to use this technique, you should ensure that the horse is not rolled up for longer than a minute at a time and that the reins are loosened regularly. This way, you can help relieve the strain.

You can also attach a hay net or set up a manger in the paddock so your horse has continuous access to feed. This prevents dry drooling, which can lead to swelling of the muzzle.

FAQ on thick jaws in horses

1. What are muzzles on a horse?

The jawbone refers to the area of ​​the lower jaw, specifically the region behind the cheeks, formed by the masseter muscles. These jawbones are particularly important for the horse's mobility and well-being, especially in relation to riding.

2. What is meant by ganache freedom and why is it important?

The width of the muzzle (also called the width of the muzzle) refers to the distance and mobility in the muzzle area. Adequate muzzle clearance is especially important in dressage, allowing the horse to maintain a relaxed posture and work effectively with the reins. Muzzles that are too tight can cause pain and restrict the horse's freedom of movement, making it difficult to perform certain dressage exercises.

3. Why do horses’ muzzles become thick?

There are several possible causes for thick jaws:

• Rollkur : Horses ridden in rollkur often have restricted movement in the jaw area. The reins are tied so tightly that the jaws are squeezed, leading to swelling and increased saliva production.

• Nutrition : Swelling often occurs after a turnout, especially in horses grazing on short grass. Grass-peeping without adequate food intake can stimulate salivation, but due to a lack of food intake, the saliva remains in the mouth and accumulates in the parotid glands.

• Inflammation and irritation : In some cases, allergies or irritations from plants, fertilizers or environmental factors can also cause swelling of the jaws.

4. Why do the jaws often swell after being out in the pasture?

The phenomenon of swollen jaws after a turnout occurs primarily when horses graze on short grass that has been grazed down to the ground. Picking grass without sufficient food stimulates saliva production, but the saliva cannot drain or be swallowed because the horse is not eating enough. This leads to congestion in the parotid glands, which causes swelling.

5. What can I do if my horse's jaws are thick?

• Adjust feeding : Ensure your horse gets plenty of hay, as this encourages chewing and salivation. Avoid feeds like muesli or oats, as they are eaten quickly and produce little saliva.

• Exercise : Make sure your horse gets regular exercise. Lunging is a good option, as this stimulates salivation and promotes the drainage of saliva. When riding, the horse's movement should not be restricted by excessively tight bridles.

• Supplementary food : Herbs such as liver herbs can help support the glands and metabolism, which facilitates the flow of saliva.

6. How can I prevent the development of thick jaws?

• Avoid rollkur : Avoid riding your horse in rollkur, as this can not only lead to thicker muzzles but also cause other health problems. If you must use rollkur, make sure to loosen the reins periodically to avoid unnecessary compression of the glands.

• Hay or feed net : You can hang a hay net or set up a hay rack in the paddock so your horse can eat continuously. This helps prevent excessive saliva production.

7. Can I help with certain herbs or preparations?

Yes, herbs like liver herbs (e.g., "Sunrise for Horses") support metabolism and glandular function, which can lead to improved salivary drainage. However, consult a veterinarian before introducing any new herbs or supplements into your horse's diet.

8. How long does it take for the jaws to return to normal?

Healing times can vary. In mild cases where the snout is caused by lightly picking grass or applying light rein pressure, a change in diet and exercise can lead to improvement within a few days. In more severe cases, such as inflammation from rollkur or chronic disorders, healing may take longer, and in some cases, veterinary treatment is required.

9. Should I see a veterinarian if my horse's muzzles are thick?

Yes, especially if the swelling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, inflammation, or discomfort. A veterinarian can provide an accurate diagnosis and, if necessary, recommend treatment options such as anti-inflammatory therapy.