What Are the Causes of Saddle Souring in Horses?

Saddle sores are the common ailment that afflict regularly ridden horses. They are simply sores that cause pain and discomfort to the horse. This type of wound must be treated with disinfectant and riding cannot occur until the horse is fully healed. Salt water can be applied also to harden the horses skin.

  1. Poor Saddle Fit

    • Poorly fitted saddles are the leading cause of saddle souring. A poorly fitted saddle is loose and makes the horse feel the way you would feel walking in a pair of shoes the wrong size. The saddle rubs the horse's skin and leads to discomfort and misbehavior. An uncomfortable horse is unlikely to cooperate.

    Dirt and Damage

    • Saddle sores can also be caused by unclean and damaged saddles. If the saddle pad is dirty, or the horse's back is dirty, this can also cause unnecessary friction. Sometimes the horse's hair, combined with a dirty or damaged saddle, can cause a sore.

    Girths and Cinches

    • Sores can be caused by the girth and cinches being fitted incorrectly. If they are too tight or too loose and cause rubbing and movement, they can contribute to the development of a sore.

    Horse's Size

    • Thin horses can also be more prone to saddle souring. A thin horse is harder to fit a saddle on and so is more likely to experience rubbing and excess movement. Thin horse may require extra padding and more secure fitting.