Horse Body Condition Scoring

Bob Coleman from the University of Kentucky explains body condition scoring for horses, a management tool to track horse health. The Texas A&M system, developed in the late 1970s, scores horses from 1 (extremely thin) to 9 (obese). Coleman describes how to visually and physically assess horses, focusing on fat deposits in specific areas. He emphasizes maintaining scores between 4 and 6 for optimal health. Regular monitoring helps adjust feeding and exercise to maintain desired condition.

What is the primary purpose of body condition scoring in horses?

• To determine the horse's age

• To track the horse's health and condition

• To measure the horse's height

• To assess the horse's speed

Which university developed the body condition scoring system discussed in the video?

• Texas A&M University

• University of Kentucky

• Harvard University

• Stanford University

What score indicates a horse is extremely thin according to the Texas A&M system?

• 9

• 7

• 5

• 1

What is the first step in assessing a horse's body condition?

• Checking the horse's hooves

• Looking at the horse's teeth

• Visually inspecting the horse's ribs

• Measuring the horse's height

Where do fat deposits typically start to form on a horse with a body condition score above six?

• On the ears

• On the neck

• On the tail

• On the hooves

What does a negative crease along a horse's back indicate?

• The horse is perfectly healthy

• The horse is dehydrated

• The horse is underweight

• The horse is overweight

If a horse's body condition score is decreasing, what might be a necessary adjustment?

• Increase the horse's calorie intake

• Increase the horse's exercise

• Reduce the horse's water consumption

• Decrease the horse's calorie intake

What should be done if a horse's body condition score is increasing towards seven?

• Increase the horse's calorie intake

• Decrease the horse's exercise

• Control the horse's calorie intake

• Increase the horse's water consumption

How often should horse owners perform body condition scoring?

• Once a day

• Once a week

• Once a month

• Once a year

Where can horse owners find more information on body condition scoring?

• The horse.com and Cooperative Extension websites

• Local pet stores

• Veterinary clinics

• Horse racing tracks