When we refer to “topline,” we’re talking about the entire upper line of the horse’s body. That includes how the neck ties into the shoulder and the development of the back muscles under the saddle area, across the loin, and over the rump. When horses lack musculature over those areas, they are said to “have a poor topline.” Many things can cause poor topline, including incorrect training, an ill-fitting saddle, old age, lameness, or diseases like pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, or equine Cushing’s). If your horse is struggling to develop a nice topline despite good health (talk to you veterinarian!), proper training, and a well-fitting saddle, perhaps his or her diet needs another look.
In this episode, Michelle and Dr. Clair cover:
- What is topline?
- How to support topline development through nutrition.
- Understanding protein quality and its role in topline development.
- And other factors that might affect topline.
Do you have questions about feeding your new horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com
Thanks for riding along with us!