Kissing spine

[Mb02]

We are looking to rehome a companion horse that has been diagnosed with kissing spine.
We don’t know much about it. Can they live comfortably as a companion or can further issues occur?
is it a bad idea or can they live normal lives as companions playing with friends etc?
thanks in advance

 

[Green Bean]

Difficult to answer as it depends how many spinous processes are affected and to what degree - once you have this information you should contact your vet for an opinion. My horse was diagnosed with 2 KS and I was advised that core exercise was the best form of rehab as it lifts the core which in turn helps to separate the processes. It may be completely alright if the horse is never going to be ridden again as there won't be weight pushing down, but I would start with your vet once you have all the information (try getting the vet practice number who provided the diagnosis so your vet can talk to them on the severity of it, or you could talk directly to them if you are comfortable with this)

 

[IrishMilo]

You'll never know the degree of pain its in. Like GB said, it depends how many processes are touching, where and the confo of the horse. If it's a long-backed, naturally sway type, the rate of decline is worse than a solid type with good muscle. Consistent core strength type work is better than being left to waste in a field, to keep the spine supported.

 

[paddi22]

I have a 19 year old with kissing spine currently. he didn't need op but gets injections every few years. I know I will never be able to retire him to a field, he will have to be kept in light hacking. if he loses muscles over his top line at all, his kissing spine affects him.