Horse scared of cats

[miss_molly]

I know it sounds crazy but I think my horse is genuinely scared of cats. After looking back at some of the times she has gone a bit crazy there has been a cat. Yesterday I was supposed to have a lesson, but didnt even manage to get on board as she got so wound up and scared. Instructor confirmed genuine fear not naughty. She was physically shaking and so scared. We looked towards area of scary thing but could not see anything. Then later on other person at yard said there was a cat on the lawn. Now putting lots of things together and cats seem to play a big part. Am I mad or could it be possible?

 

[Circe]

I think its possible.
My tb Jazz was being difficult last week. Not listening. Spooking, trying to spin etc. All i could see was a cat in the next field. I took him over to the fence to look at it, while i reassured him its nothing to worry about... Cat then jumped on and killed a bird.
Jazz then did a 180 degree spin, tried to bolt.
Im a liar, cats are obviously dangerous killers ! Lol.
Not sure how to 'cure' him though.
Kx

 

[Rollin]

Your horses need lessons from my ShagyaxCB yearling filly - she chases cats.

I wish she wouldn't as I love my yard cats.

 

[LucyPriory]

Miss Molly - my horse used to be scared of cats too - she did get over her fear tho.

 

[miss_molly]

Glad to hear its not just my horse and im not going mad at thinking that is the issue. Im not sure what to do as it seems to be a major thing. Lets hope no cats about today when i want to ride.

 

[LucyPriory]

Every horse is different - but Grace is part QH and that bit of the brain was one day inspired to chase the cat and we haven't looked back.... and neither has the cat....... it is too busy making sure it never gets chased by a horse again.

(I'm a bit sad about this because I love cats).

 

[gugglebum]

You could always test your theory with the help of the yard cat if the cats owner's willing, and if it is fear of cats try the de-sensitization process. Cats aren't known for their compliance though so if that fails, my niece was given a toy cat for Christmas which is so realistic. Its battery operated and miows, blinks, twitches its tail etc. If it is cats I'd want to get this issue resolved as you never know when one of the stealthy little buggers is going to pop up when you're out & about!