Bits and bruising?

[AlDestoor]

Hi!

Just wanting some advice.

My horse has some how developed some bruising on his upper gums. I noticed because he was becoming gobby and saliving excessively after 5 mins of being bitted.

The bruising isnt where the bits sits, it's just above it so I dont know if it could be the bit causing it?

Also, he does have a really small mouth and a huge tongue! Its sticks out the side however, hes not in hard work (ridden for about 20 mins 4 times a week) and the bit is a narrow, loose ring french link snaffle so not sure what else I can try to give him the space in his mouth. That's if it is that that is causing it.

Hes seen by the dentist every 3 months and has his back checked every 8 weeks and I'm certainly not heavy with my hands!

 

[rabatsa]

A jointed bit can move a lot in the mouth causing bruising. Personally I have found mullen mouthed bits best for large tongues and small mouths. They can also be dropped down a hole in height without problems too.

 

[AlDestoor]

oooo I’ll try that thank you! I didn’t realise, I thought this was the best fit for him really with it being thin and linked!

 

[Nari]

As rabatsa said the bit will move in the mouth when used so I'd say there's a good chance that's what's causing it. With a small mouth and big tongue I'd try a low port, which will give even more tongue relief than a mullen. I like the Mylers, but there are other makes on the market too.

 

[AlDestoor]

As rabatsa said the bit will move in the mouth when used so I'd say there's a good chance that's what's causing it. With a small mouth and big tongue I'd try a low port, which will give even more tongue relief than a mullen. I like the Mylers, but there are other makes on the market too.

I used to have a myler but it squeaked terribly- not sure whether it just got old or what lol

 

[Nari]

Something like this https://www.horsebitbank.com/products/myler-04-loose-ring-comfort and I've never had them squeak!

 

[AlDestoor]

Something like this https://www.horsebitbank.com/products/myler-04-loose-ring-comfort and I've never had them squeak!

I know- it was as if it needed oiling if that makes sense! I’ve still got it so might try him in that. Just weird, I definitely think it;s the bit as he’s got it slightly at the bottom as well

 

[Nari]

Hve a really good look t it before you use it and give it a few good tugs too, it could be something inside the barrel is wearing. If it seems ok then maybe a few drops of vegetable oil inside the barrel will cure the squeak.

 

[AlDestoor]

Hve a really good look t it before you use it and give it a few good tugs too, it could be something inside the barrel is wearing. If it seems ok then maybe a few drops of vegetable oil inside the barrel will cure the squeak.

Thank you, I’ll give it a try tomorrow- Just want him to be comfortable

 

[oldie48]

Mr B had a very small mouth and a large fleshy tongue, he also had fleshy inner cheeks. I really struggled with the contact but eventually had a Bit Fit person out to see him. She suggested I try him in a NS Baucher Turtle top bit. I would never have considered a hanging cheek but I was amazed at the change. You need something that suits the conformation of his mouth so I can only share my own experience as your horse may have a very different conformation. Looking back , though, I realise he must have been quite uncomfortable.