Stumbling going downhill

[mtj]

Can someone please confirm my suspicion (sp) that this is a sign of lameness.

Thanks

 

[JessandCharlie]

Could be, is he lame on the flat/a circle? Could be weakness as far as muscles are concerned too, my girl tripped over fresh air when I got her and it was just down to lack of muscle :s

 

[nicelittle]

Maybe not necessarily, though may depend on the circumstances. From personal experience i know that my share horse used to stumble down hill as a youngster as he was not using his hindquarters enough, as he has grown up and got fitter he does not do it now.

 

[mtj]

the horse is fit - sorry if being a bit vague - horse isn't mine

 

[noblesteed]

Yes my horse used to stumble going down hill when I first got him. He was unfit, with poor muscle tone and unevenly shod. My farrier spent a long time rebalancing his feet.
So, poor shoeing could be a factor for you?

 

[dreamcometrue]

I don't know what might cause this but make sure he wears knee boots.

 

[moneypit1]

We have a 15 yo on our yard which makes a real 'meal' out of going down hill. He swings his front legs out in a strange way and would probably stumble if we didn't hold him together. Turns out this is a classic symptom of arthritic changes in the hocks according to our vet.