Pulling faces when changing rugs

[Joanne4584]

I have a very sweet, laid back horse who generally wouldn't say boo to a goose. I've noticed that he now pulls some really nasty faces when I'm putting his rug on, and fastening the chest straps and surcingles. No bother at all though doing the leg straps. Over the past two years he's got gradually worse.

Any ideas as to why?

 

[kerrieberry2]

Maybe hes too warm?

 

[Jo1987]

Are you sure the rugs fit? Not too tight over withers/around chest or pulling too far back and rubbing?

 

[Joanne4584]

It doesn't matter what rug it is or how cold it is. None of his rugs are showing signs of rubbing him. Maybe he's just turning into a grump in his old age...

 

[shadowboy]

My boy has suddenly started doing this too but only on the chest straps. Again no sweating or rubbing and it doesn't matter which rug either.

 

[lhotse]

My mare is moody when doing rugs, it's just her. She'll swing round to bite if given the chance, and stamp her foot when she doesn't get her own way. I just ignore it, and carry on. I have taught her to have lighter weight rugs put on and off over her head as my mum does evening stables in the week so less of chance of her getting bitten. It's only really the chest straps, she will look round when doing surcingles but has only bitten my arse once!! All rugs fit fine, she's just a grump!!

 

[madmav]

I always get grumpy face and threats of bites taking off and putting on horse's rugs. Think he just hates wearing them. Bit like me with bras. Necessary evils.

 

[Spoiled cob]

Could it be because he doesn't like having a cold rug put on?