Horse Body Condition Scoring:
Condition Score #8: Fat
Dr. Robert E. Bray
Consulting Equine Nutritionist
(Permission granted for the reprinting of this material from REBray’s Equine Nutritional Management© manual for the 2009-2010 Star Milling Web site)

There is a crease down the back; the distinction of the crease is dependent on muscle type of the horse. The ribs are difficult to feel. The fat around the tailhead is very soft. The sides along the withers are filled with fat; as well as behind the shoulder; fat may appear patchy in these areas. There is noticeable thickening of the neck and depending on age and activity fat deposits may appear along the inner thighs or behind the point of elbow. Rump is round and apple shape.

• There is noticeable thickening of the neck; note “fat ripples”. • The sides along the withers are filled with fat.
	• Ribs are difficult to feel. • Fat pad behind the shoulder is very spongy and will appear protruding. • Crease down the back. • Rump is round and apple shape in appearance. BACK TO HORSE BODY CONDITION MAIN PAGE