Risk factors for faecal sand excretion in Icelandic horses

Area of Science:

• Equine health
• Gastroenterology
• Animal science

Background:

• Sandy soil is a suspected risk factor for sand-related gastrointestinal disease (SGID) in horses.
• Limited studies have confirmed environmental and management variables contributing to SGID.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate soil type, pasture quality, and feeding practices as risk factors for sand intake in horses.
• To analyze age, sex, and body condition score in relation to sand ingestion.

Main Methods:

• Faecal and soil samples collected from 211 Icelandic horses across 19 Danish studs.
• Sand content in faeces quantified using a rectal sleeve sedimentation test.
• Logistic analysis used to determine the significance of soil type, pasture quality, and feeding practices.

Main Results:

• 56.4% of horses showed sand in faeces; 5.7% had over 5 mm of sand.
• Soil type alone was not significant, but interactions with pasture quality were observed.
• Significant interactions found between feeding practices, pasture quality, and grass length.

Conclusions:

• Pasture quality (short/long grass with sandy soil) and feeding directly on the ground increase sand intake risk.
• Clay soil presented the lowest risk. Feeding outdoors on short grass without feeders also elevated risk.
• Identifying these risk factors is crucial for preventing SGID in horses.